Mount Vernon-Enola school accepts exchange students

By The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Mount Vernon-Enola High School has accepted two international exchange students through the Student Travel Services Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that invites Faulkner County families to host a student in their home this school year.

In an effort to raise cultural awareness and understanding, STS Foundation matches students from around the globe with families that are willing to provide room and board, a safe and nurturing environment, and an interest in learning about a different culture. Dwayne Berkhan, the Faulkner County regional coordinator, said both the student and the host family benefit from the cultural exchange.

"When the students leave, [the host family] has a new son or daughter halfway around the world," Berkhan said. "They always want you to visit their home." He said the exchange is a reminder to hosts and American classmates that other cultures view the world differently.

The international students, ranging in ages 15-18, will attend public high school for one academic year. They have their own money and health insurance, and STS Foundation matches them with host families according to shared interests, backgrounds, and affinities.

All types of families are welcome for the program. More information is available at www.stsfoundation.org or by calling or e-mailing Brian MarGrave at 1-800-522-4678 or brian@stsfoundation.org.

River Valley Ozark, Pages 144 on 06/22/2008