Are you interested in welcoming an international student into your home and sharing the experience of being part of a Canadian family?
Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows School District’s International Education program is currently looking to add host families in the Maple Ridge Secondary, Pitt Meadows Secondary and Westview Secondary catchment areas.
“These areas, along with the elementary feeder schools, are our target but we are always welcoming new families from across the entire district,” said Tricia McCuaig, vice principal International Education and English Language Learners (ELL). “The homestay family experience is highly valued in our district and is one of the reasons many of our students choose to study with us.”
While staying with their host family, international students are included in family meals, activities and outings.
The cultural exchange goes both ways.
As one participating family recently commented to McCuaig: “Hosting students allows us to connect with and help others around the world and helps open my children’s eyes and hearts to a more diverse and global appreciation and understanding.”
SD42 has welcomed elementary and secondary students from 28 different countries for academic and cultural (short term) programs.
To become a host family, some of the basic requirements include:
- A private bedroom with a window and door
- Basic bathroom with toiletry supplies
- Three meals per day with snacks
- Transportation of your student to and from the Vancouver International Airport if necessary
- English is the primary language spoken in the home
Families who wish to host elementary students must meet these additional criteria:
- One of the parents is a stay-at home parent or works from home
- Must drive student to and from school
If you are interested in becoming a host family and would like more information, click here.