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Board reviews international student trips: Sister Cities exchange and a large Japan trip
Summary
Administrators updated the board on an active Sister Cities student exchange to Germany and a planned student trip to Japan; review covered typical participation (about 15–20 for sister cities; up to 38 for Japan), costs, timing and family hosting logistics.
Mister Peterson and district staff briefed the board on two international programs: the Sister Cities exchange with Dierdorf, Germany (reciprocal hosting; district students expected to travel in June 2027) and a large student trip to Japan that previously included 38 students.
Mr. Peterson said Sister Cities exchanges generally involve about 15 students and are reciprocal — the number sent matches the number received — while the Japan trip typically attracts more students and is structured as a commercial trip with chaperones and hotels. "This particular portion of our trip or our program is focused on German aspect...Those that are involved in the program will be arriving in Germany in June '27," he said. Staff noted the Japan trip is more expensive (presenters referenced costs in the thousands per student) while Sister Cities trips are heavily subsidized by fundraising and the host program.
Board members asked about calendar overlap between trips and whether the two programs could occur in adjacent breaks; staff acknowledged there can be some overlap among participants but said most families and students self‑select. District leaders said outreach and home‑host placement will begin now to secure enough host families and chaperones.
Why it matters: International exchange and travel programs provide curricular and cultural experiences but require careful planning around cost, scheduling, and parent/guardian logistics. The board did not vote on the trips; staff will continue planning and return with any required approvals.
