HS Exchange Trip to Alicante, Spain

Recently, 15 North Shore High School juniors and seniors had the privilege to visit and stay with host families in Alicante, Spain under the direction of chaperones Madel Soriano and Karl Tretter.  In addition to attending classes at Instituto Playa San Juan, the North Shore students visited Madrid, Valencia and Toledo, learned about famous sites, ate authentic foods, spoke the language, and fully experienced the culture of Spain.    

Student Gregory O’Rourke’s said, “The extent to which the entire group was able to enjoy lingual education as a result of this experience was incredible…. seeing the Prado, the Plaza Mayor, Toledo, the Palacio, and many other sites in Madrid, with informational sessions and direct understanding provided something a textbook cannot…”

Greg also stated, “…Foreign languages are fun, practical, constantly engaging, and essential to living an eclectic life. In a constantly globalizing world, it has become more essential that ever before to have several languages under my belt...”

This past September 2011, students from Alicante, Spain visited the North Shore Schools, attended classes, and stayed with host families in the district. These trips were paid for by the families of the students who participated. Many thanks to all the teachers, Dr. Ellen Shields, and the families who organized and shared in this exciting exchange program. It positively changed the lives of those exchange students now and forever.

This week, March 26th – March 30th, has been designated “Foreign Language Week” at the North Shore Schools. Many activities and events have been scheduled at all of the schools including on March 29th, there will be a “Multicultural Celebration” in the HS Cafeteria from 7-8 PM! Please join us!    

Article and photos by Shelly Newman