The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) is seeking homes for international students for the upcoming school year.
The Avon Maitland Schools Canada program hosts international students, supported by experienced area coordinators. This program immerses students in local culture, guides them academically, and ensures regular communication with parents.
MyStratfordNow interviewed Paul Langis, AMDSB Superintendent of Education.
“Homestay program is a key part of Avon Maitland District School Board’s International Education program, aiming to attract 80 to 100 international students for semester or year-long studies,” he said.
Langis said there are sometimes short-term stays; students would come for a month or up to six weeks. He recommended that families who are interested in hosting for the first time as a trial-run to contact the school board.
The program places students with local families, which is crucial for growth but also a significant challenge due to the difficulty in finding enough host families. But the goal is to keep students for a full semester or year.
“What we’re really looking for, is an opportunity that these host families and their homestays really treat these students like their own for the time that they’re with us,” Langis added.
Langis said stipends are available and if there are any incidental costs those could be covered.
Langis encourages interested families to reach out for more information. You can email [email protected] or go to the AMDSB website for more information.
