Spanish Exchange Students Wave a Tearful Goodbye
At 4:15 am last Friday, two little yellow school busses left Annie Wright. The bus leading the way carried the ten Spanish girls and their teacher who had been here for nine weeks as part of an exchange program. The second bus following shortly behind carried their luggage. The hallways today are much quieter without their spirited chatter and laughter. They will be missed.
It’s clear what the girls will miss most: their host families and the friends they’ve made here. They have established lifelong friendships and strong bonds. While they were here, the girls experienced immersed themselves in American culture. They played tennis, soccer and volleyball. They were also able to travel to Vancouver and Portland. One girl went as far as Hollywood, California with her host’s family. They attended classes, football games, an Annie Wright dance and other social events. They will miss grabbing a burger and a Nutella milkshake at the local hangout, Shake Shake Shake.
Luckily, some students will be able to see the girls again soon in their native country. As part of the exchange, a small group of Annie Wright students will be visiting their school, Eurocolegio Casvi, just outside of Madrid, in January for 5-9 weeks. The Spanish girls are already excited to return the favor and give them an authentic experience. Experiences may include trying home-cooked paella and chocolate dipped churros, siestas and a European ski trip.
“The Spanish girls impacted everyone and we are thrilled to have been a part of it,” said Assistant Head of Schools Susan Bauska, who hosted two girls herself. “We consider this program an overall success and cannot wait to see where it goes from here.”
Read more about the Spanish exchange program and international mindedness at Annie Wright Schools in the upcoming issue of Strength magazine this month.
