During the first month of the school year, School District 46 (SD46) took its new international students on several journeys to the surrounding region, welcoming them to the district.
Each year, the school district welcomes a small number of students primarily from Europe, Brazil and Mexico who typically attend Elphinstone Secondary School or Chatelech Secondary School for two semesters, assisted by an established homestay program.
This year, the school district welcomed 18 new international students. Twelve students are at Elphinstone Secondary School and six at Chatelech Secondary School.
Barry Krangle, SD46 coordinator for International Programs has already taken the students on two excursions, the first was to Vancouver, to explore the culture and environment.
Students also visited Canada Place and participated in a workshop with the Vancouver Port Authority, learning about the port's significance.
The group then got a tandem bike lesson on Georgia Street and took a science tour around Stanely Park.
The second trip the students went on was around the coast of Gibsons, exploring the local environment before heading over to Keats Island for a day trip.
Jennifer Roberts, SD46 assistant superintendent of schools, said in an email that Krangle organizes a variety of activities such as snowshoeing, urban treks, hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, Vancouver Port Studies and visits to local elementary schools.
Krangle has also led students on visits to the tems swiya Museum in Sechelt, UBC, the Sea to Sky Gondola, Lynn Canyon, Dakota Ridge, the Skookumchuck, Mt. Daniel, Keats Island, Secret Cove, Vancouver’s inner-city bike tour, Soames Hill, camping with the Gibsons Paddle Club, kayaking at Porpoise Bay, Cliff Gilker Park and seasonal celebrations at the Krangle household, shared Roberts.
Roberts also shared feedback from one of their students, “Teachers are so personable and helpful, and the students are unbelievable. We get invited to join teams, help organize leadership initiatives, and enjoy fun weekend activities. I’ve made so many friends!” said Sofia Pastore, a recent international student from Italy.
Many of the international students return to the Sunshine Coast after their two-semester visit, often with their families and visit their homestay hosts and friends, which Roberts says reflects the success of the international program. She added that in return, many local students have travelled abroad to reconnect with former SD46 international students and explore their homelands.
"We are thrilled to welcome another cohort this year and are incredibly grateful for the wonderful experiences our generous host families provide," said Krangle. "It’s a win-win for everyone."
Jordan Copp is the Coast Reporter’s civic and Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
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