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Wednesday, September 14, 2011

How are students placed in host families?

One of the most common questions asked this evening was "How are the students placed in host families?"

We're glad you asked!

D99 students will be asked to fill out a personal card that describes their background, and shares some of their personal interests.  They will then be matched to a German host family by the faculty at the Musikschule in Bietigheim-Bissingen.  Their staff makes every effort to pair our students with a German student that has similar interests, is the same gender, and close in age.

We are sent the names and contact information for the host family approximately one month prior to departure.  Your family will have the opportunity to communicate with the German host family through email before your child travels to Germany.  Students often become 'Facebook friends' before they actually meet in person!

It is also important to note that every host family includes persons who speak English.  Your child will not need to speak any German in order to communicate, however students typically have fun learning some basic key phrases with their hosts during the week-long exchange.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

It begins!

This week marks the 'official' kick-off of our 2012 District 99 Honors Band Tour to Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany, and Rome, Italy.  The music faculty of North and South High School are excited to begin this amazing musical and cultural journey with you!

District 99 has enjoyed a wonderful exchange program with the Bieitigheim-Bissingen Musikschule for over 25 years.  We are certain you will cherish the memories that will be created during this tour for years, and years to come!