There is no better way to learn a language than to study it in the country where it is spoken.

Ten years ago Shakopee High School started an exchange program with a school in the North of Spain called Foz. At the beginning of every two years students interested that have had two or more years of Spanish classes are matched with a student from Foz, the Spanish High school.

When our students host a group of students from Spain, they have the opportunity to gain insight into their own culture as well as learn about the Spanish language and culture through first-hand experience living and interacting with their Spanish peers. To complete the exchange, students travel to Spain for 3 weeks shortly after the school year ends. We will begin in Madrid and travel to 1-2 additional Spanish cities. The first week is spent easing into the language and culture while sight-seeing with the American group. The following two weeks are spent in Foz. There students will live with Spanish host families, attend classes and participate in cultural activities and several tours and field trips arranged by our partner school. By living with a family, students are given the opportunity to share in meals, conversation, and daily activities.

There is no better way to learn or improve your knowledge about a culture and a language than experience everyday life first hand! If you are interested in the exchange and would like more information, please see Ms. Sariego or Ms. Beran. Our next scheduled exchange will happen over the 2014-2015 school year. We will begin meeting and accepting applications on a first-come, first-serve basis in the spring of 2014.