Residents and exchange students urge district to expand international exchange placements

Several public commenters urged the Western Placer Unified board to support and expand international exchange programs.

Mandy Oxendine, representing ISE Student Exchange and host families, thanked the district "on behalf of ISE Student Exchange, our international students, and our host families" and requested the district update an out-of-date memorandum of understanding so placements can continue across both high school campuses. Oxendine asked for clearer, more collaborative communication between the district and the exchange organization.

Exchange student Kelly Oh described how participation in Lincoln High School activities — performing at football games, dance camp, homecoming and snowboarding with a host family — enriched her year and helped her grow personally. "Being an exchange student has taught me how to step out of my comfort zone," she said.

Lincoln community member Kristen Rose said she and other families have tried to host exchange students and asked the district to allow two or three exchange students per high school. Rose argued exchange students improve academic discussions, school climate and cultural competency without requiring additional staff or budget.

Board President and staff thanked speakers and noted the comments will be part of the public record. No board action on the MOU or immediate program change was taken during the meeting.

What’s next: Speakers requested an updated MOU and improved communication; the district did not commit to a timeline for MOU revision at the meeting.