International Student Program See Biggest Growth Yet
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Sixty students from twelve countries around the world are attending high school in Livingstone Range School Division this year, making 2024-2025 the International Student Program's biggest year to date.
"We're welcoming students from Belgium, Spain, and Germany, as well as China, Japan, Vietnam, Turkiye, and more," says Chad Kuzyk, Associate Superintendent of Programs & Innovation and head of international programming. "The rich diversity of culture and languages these students bring to our area is incredible. And a portion of student fees are invested right back into our own schools for programming and services."
This year the sixty students are spread out across each of Livingstone Range School DIivision's six high schools: Crowsnest Consolidated High School (Coleman), Livingstone School (Lundbreck), Matthew Halton High School (Pincher Creek), F.P. Walshe School (Fort Macleod), Willow Creek Composite High School (Claresholm), and J.T. Foster High School (Nanton).
Students work with an agent in their home country and apply to come to Livingstone Range School Division for a Canadian high school experience. With some English language skills, they enroll in the same core and option classes offered to local students. International students pay for their travel, tuition, and room and board with a host family.
"We could not do this without the incredible support of our homestay host families," Kuzyk says. "These families open their homes and their hearts to welcome young people from all over the world, providing a warm Alberta welcome and enriching Canadian experience."
The International Student Program is expected to grow again for the 2025-2026 school year and host families are always needed. Homestay families are asked to provide a private bedroom, daily meals and some transportation, and must have a clear criminal record check. A monthly payment of $850 offsets the costs of living expenses for the student. If your family is interested in experiencing first-hand a new culture and enriching your family life, visit www.lrsd.ca/host today.
