Schools

Ladue Host Families Needed For Spanish Student Visitors

Families that participated last year had memorable experiences, but host families are still needed this year.

Last summer, 14 Ladue families hosted students from Spain, which was a rewarding experience. For many host families, opening their home enriched their lives and connected them to the world.

Once again, Reed Elementary School Spanish teacher Sarah Adams is in need of host families for the program. The program however, is not sponsored by the Ladue School District, but is part of the Interculteral Student Experiences organization, a nonprofit group from Minneapolis.

“Our host families had a great time last year, and we need the help again this summer. Our preference is strongly having at least one teenager in the household,” she said. The visitors from Spain, both males and females, range in ages from 15 to 17. The students are expected to learn American values and traditions and become active participants in family life. “They are expected to make their beds and straighten up their rooms. Hosts do not have to fill their time all the time,” she said.

Adams is a little apprehensive about 2011. “I still need many host families for this summer. If I cannot find suitable homes, the students will not be able to take part in the exchange program,” she said. This summer the student count is 10--five boys and five girls.
Here’s a sample of visitor profiles:

Find out what's happening in Ladue-Frontenacwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Fernando, 17, is from Madrid. He loves nature and traveling.
  • Laura, 15, plays piano and sings in the school and church choir.
  • Miguel, 17, comes from a large family. He enjoys soccer, wind surfing, basketball and swimming.
  • Marta, 17, plays guitar and enjoys time at the pool.

All visitors are required to sign a code of good conduct before making the trip to America.

Getting out and learning about St. Louis is a key component of the trip. “Best of all, they really enjoyed going to a Cardinals baseball game,” she said. Other excursions included trips to the St. Louis Rams Park, the zoo and Ted Drewes.

This summer’s itinerary will include another ballgame; trips to the City Museum, Six Flags, movies at the Galleria and a pool party, too.

Find out what's happening in Ladue-Frontenacwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Adams needs homes for these guests between June 25 and July 30. She can be reached at 314-620-8742 or by email at sadams@ladue.k12.mo.us.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Ladue-Frontenac