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Woodinville Montessori program introduces students to foreign cultures

Woodinville Montessori School in Bothell, Washington welcomes students from Thailand as part of the new student exchange program. 


There was a lot of excitement as the Upper Elementary (4th – 6th grade) and Junior High (7th – 9th grade) Woodinville Montessori School students warmly welcomed their guests visiting for a three-week immersion from Thailand as part of a new exchange program initiative.

Eleven children accompanied by their group leader arrived in Seattle on the evening of April 20.  Head of School Mary Schneider and Program Director Nancy Kestek met the group at SeaTac.  Host families brought them to their homes where they will reside until May12.  Both the students and their host families are thrilled to participate in the first group exchange student program at WMS!  The students, aged 10 – 16 years, applied to participate in the program through CETA Worldwide Education. 

During their visit the students will take part in several excursions to get to know their host area. They began with a trip to the Seattle Center where they enjoyed views of the city from the Space Needle and time to explore the EMP.  They are also immersed in daily school life practicing their English and attending classes as part of Woodinville Montessori School’s Upper Elementary and Junior High programs. 

 

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A large part of the Montessori curriculum focuses on studying different countries and cultures.  According to Head of School Mary Schneider, “Bringing a cross-cultural experience to the classroom gives our students a first-hand account of overcoming language barriers and creating a sense of community with our fellow global citizens.  We are thrilled to welcome these students into our school, and look forward to further developing the program into a year-long opportunity.”   

 

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Woodinville Montessori School is an independent Montessori school, serving students from age 1 1/2 through the 12th grade.

For more information about Woodinville Montessori School visit www.woodinvillemontessori.org.

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