Alejandro from Spain participating in boys varsity soccer.
Chittenango once again is hosting foreign exchange students for the 2025-2026 school year. This year we have Alejandro from Spain, Kathi from Germany, and Lou from France. According to Sarah Schiralli, the French teacher and organizer at Greenheart, “The students have to apply in their own country and have to be qualified. They get shots and take tests to make sure they are able.” They do have to pay money/tuition, but some have scholarships. Once they get approved, they get put into a database with a bio with what the student likes and then people can look and pick one.
Students and families are matched so it’s not random where the kids are going. The host family doesn’t make money, it’s all volunteer. All exchange students are required to be 16 years old and have to be a senior. Some students have to go back to their county after their year here and have to do another year of school in their country. It’s a good opportunity for families and they can reach out to Greenheart if they are interested. If you are interested in hosting, email or talk to Ms. Schiralli in the French room and she can help and tell you who to talk to.