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Students describe life-changing experiences from exchange programs and D.C. trip; board praises host families and community support

Galena School Board · August 13, 2025
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Summary

Presentations highlighted two student travel programs: a Galena group's Washington, D.C. trip and a year-round American Exchange Project that sent and hosted students. Students and organizers said the programs broaden perspectives and provide experiences many could not otherwise afford.

Board members heard two presentations featuring student travel this year: a school-organized Washington, D.C. trip and the American Exchange Project, a two-week domestic exchange with a one-week home-host component.

The D.C. trip report described a packed multi-day itinerary (Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, museums and Gettysburg) with 19 students, 11 parents and two teachers participating. Presenters emphasized the educational value of connecting museum visits to classroom learning and noted aggressive walking schedules and carefully planned logistics managed by a travel company.

Missus Jenkins presented the American Exchange Project, saying Galena sent nine students around the country and hosted eight visiting students this year. Jenkins credited host families, community organizations and donors (Kiwanis Club, Gleaton Education Foundation and private host families) for making the program free to participating students and enabling wider access.

Student Sarah spoke about her placement in Kingston, Massachusetts, recounting whale watching, museum visits and deep friendships. She told the board: "As a low income student, this wonderful experience couldn't have been made possible without the project and without the support of the school board." Another student and organizers highlighted how hometown weeks showcased Galena and created cross-cultural understandings among participants.

Board members responded with thanks to organizers and encouragement to continue the programs; Jenkins said she hopes the board will continue support so more students can travel and host visitors in Galena.