Published in the April 29 – May 12, 2015 issue of Morgan Hill Life

By Staff Report

Educatius International has been promoting world peace through intercultural understanding for more than 20 years. By inviting an international teen into an American home and family, that child gets the chance to see the heart of this country up close and personal. This gives them a different impression of the U.S. than they have gathered from the news, movies, or music videos, according to Madelyn Mancini. Many students go home with a much more positive view of America than they came with, and they share that view with their friends and family.

At the same time, host parents are providing a child with a safe and nurturing environment in which to learn about this country. Educatius International is a student placement organization and specialize in recruitment and placement of international students. The students live with an American family and learn to view America through an American’s eyes. This year, international students are coming to Live Oak and Sobrato high schools from Europe, Asia and South America.

Hosting an international student means more than providing a bed and meals. Educatius International host families welcome a new member into the family dynamic, sharing the home and everyday lives. Many international students are eager to learn about the American culture, especially the American family dynamic. Other students are focused on the academic experience and the opportunity to explore their independence. The international coordinators take all factors into consideration and create the best possible matches between the foreign students and American host families.

The host family is responsible for providing a room with a bed, dresser and quiet place to study, and a caring environment. Financially, host families are also responsible for meals within the home, but not outside. The host family receives a stipend of $720 per student per month to offset expenses, and families can host two students at a time.

To assure the best possible experience for all participants, families applying to host an Educatius International student must be screened by the local international coordinator and must pass a background check.