GLOBAL FRIENDSHIPS PROGRAM
Every year, for the last ten years, North Saanich Middle School welcomes a group of students from Japan. It’s a whirlwind visit where our guests from Japan immerse themselves in Canadian culture and family life. We are looking for twenty-five North Saanich families to host pairs of students in their homes. The kids range in age from eleven to fifteen years old.
This year the group will be visiting from March 22nd - March 26th. Even though this coincides with our Spring Break, we will have access to the school. We will hold a Welcome Ceremony in the NSMS gym at 5pm on the 22nd when the students arrive. On Thursday, March 23rd, the group will attend a day of activities at Bayside Middle School from 9:00 am - 4:00pm which will include a Cultural Fair from 3:00pm-4:00pm that host families are encouraged to attend. On Friday, March 24th, the kids will spend the day at NSMS school with their Canadian host buddies. Saturday, March 25th, is a home based day to spend with families, and the group leaves from NSMS school Sunday morning, March 26th.
Families that participate need to provide meals to their guests, including a bagged lunch on Thursday and Friday. Students can share a room, but require separate beds (temporary beds are acceptable).
Transportation to and from school on the Thursday and Friday is also required. All adults in the household will need to have a criminal record check on file with the school district. A cheque for $320, to help offset food costs, will be issued to each host family at the Welcome Ceremony.
If you would like further information or have any questions please contact Jessica at jtamburino@sd63.bc.ca.