Below are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regrading the specifics of the exchange. As more details about the exchange are formulated, this page will be updated. If you have a specific question that is not addressed here, please use the form at the bottom of the page to ask it!
Who is the ideal student to participate in this exchange?
The student should be a strong academic student that is actively involved in the Nipmuc community. He/she should want to push their learning of the Spanish language and culture, and not be afraid to take some risks. He/she should also be excited by the prospect of traveling and forming new friendships. Most importantly, the student must have a strong proficiency in Spanish, being able to comprehend the spoken language and being fully conversational.
Will my matched student, host family, or any of the Santa Teresa staff speak to me in English?
You will find that nearly all in the Santa Teresa community (students, teachers, and parents) are fully fluent in both Spanish and Basque. Some are also fluent in English; however you cannot count on this being the case. The expectation is for Nipmuc students to interact solely in Spanish during their time in the country. The only English that will be heard will be in the English classes at Santa Teresa. Conversely, during the two weeks Santa Teresa students are here in the States, interaction in English will be expected.
What will be the cost to participate in this two-way exchange?
We are still working with Forum Language Experience to finalize flights and other travel arrangements. The estimated cost of flights, in-country transportation, medical and liability insurance, some group meals, and excursions for both sides of the exchange (in Spain and here) is $2300 per student. This amount is subject to change as arrangements become finalized. Due to the family stays during the exchange, this amount is substantially less than recent international travel trips offered to Nipmuc students.
Will fundraising opportunities to defray these expenses be available?
Yes.
What will I need to travel to Spain?
You will need a current U.S. passport. You will also need some spending money. With appropriate bank pre-authorization, credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere. U.S. currency is generally not accepted, as the euro is the standard currency in Spain. Students will have an opportunity to exchange currency before leaving, as the exchange rates are generally more favorable here than in Spain.
How will I be matched with a Santa Teresa student and host family?
Students will be matched with their Santa Teresa counterpart based upon common interests and preferences. Nipmuc and Santa Teresa students will complete profile forms that teachers will thoughtfully review in order to match students.
How many students will participate in this exchange?
The ideal sized group from each side would be approximately 15 students.
Will any students be prioritized in the selection process?
Yes, students with strong Spanish proficiency will be prioritized. However, with proficiency being equal, seniors will be prioritized as this will be their last opportunity to participate in the exchange as Nipmuc students.
Say I want to participate in only one leg of this exchange, e.g., only traveling to Spain or only hosting a Santa Teresa student. Can I do this?
The goal of the two-way exchange is to pair up students and see them travel to both sides of the Atlantic as a pair. Flexibility would depend on numbers not being equal between the two schools.
What are the responsibilities of being a host family?
The key responsibility is providing a safe, warm, and welcoming environment for the Santa Teresa student. During the home stay, the family should also provide appropriate accommodations and all meals for the student. As this is also a cultural exchange, we also encourage providing numerous opportunities where the student may experience typical American happenings (e.g., community sporting events, going out as a family, etc.) that would be a slice of life for your family.
How many chaperones will be going to Spain?
There will be two to three chaperones traveling. While the students will be staying with their host families, there will be numerous check-ins between the students and chaperones on a daily basis.
Will Nipmuc start other exchange programs?
As global education is a pathway that leads to deep, meaningful learning in students, it is our hope to build on our partnership with Santa Teresa. Based upon the success of the exchange, the Nipmuc World Languages Department will actively investigate other programs with other international partners.
How can I sign up to participate in the 2020-2021 Exchange?
Click here to complete the preliminary interest form.