Knowing that a study abroad program is not right for every student, CHRHS offers students and staff opportunities to participate in short-term exchange programs in a number of host countries. These school sanctioned trips are organized by individual teachers who want to take students to different parts of the United States or to locations throughout the world. The teachers connect with schools for a reciprocal exchange whereby similar numbers of students in the host country will also visit Camden Hills Regional High School. CHRHS students host foreign students and vice-versa during most of the exchange trips.
Upcoming International Travel Opportunities for 2018-2019
Scotland Exchange (Now Full)
Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain Exchange (Now Full)
Upcoming International Travel Opportunities for 2019-2020
Germany Exchange: Travel Summer 2019, Host Fall 2019 (still accepting students)
Morocco Exchange: Host Fall 2019, Travel April, 2020 (still accepting students)
Host Family Handbook
FAQ
How Long is an Exchange Trip?
An exchange trip typically last about two weeks. The overseas travel portion of the exchange is typically arranged to coincide with school vacations to the greatest degree possible. The Five Town School Board must approve any exchange in order for students and staff to be given release time.
What Does a Typical Trip Cost?
An exchange trip can range anywhere from $2,500 to $3,000. The cost varies according to the location, dates of the trip, and at times the number of students on the trip.
Where do Students Typically Go?
Locations will vary from year to year; however, we have built ongoing partnerships with specific schools in Germany, Spain, Scotland, and France. We are always seeking to expand our network of international partner schools.
Is Financial Aid Available?
Yes, it is the explicit intent of the Five Town School Board and administration, to provide financial assistance to students who are considered economically disadvantaged. To qualify, a student must be on the Federal Free/Reduced Lunch Program. Funding is dependent on a number of factors. Students are encouraged to sign up for Intercultural Opportunities even before they know if funding is available. If there is no funding available, they are not financially committed and can withdraw.
Who is Eligible to Go on an Exchange Trip?
For the most part, all CHRHS students are eligible to participate on an Exchange trip. A record of significant disciplinary issues can be a barrier to a student's participation.
How Do I Find Out What Trips are Approved Each Year?
All trips are posted on the CHRHS website. Additionally, students and parents are informed by email and the school newsletter.
Who Chaperones Exchange Trips?
The trip leaders and chaperones for any school sanctioned trip must be a Five Town CSD employee. By Five Town CSD School Board policy, there must be one chaperone for every eight students.
Who Pays for the Trips?
Parents are responsible for the entire cost of an Exchange trip, although fundraising offsets some of this cost. Trips are usually approved by the School Board a year in advance. That gives parents time to set aside money and students time to earn money they can put toward a trip.
Are there Fundraising Opportunities?
Fundraising is required for all trips. The exchange chaperones are responsible for helping to coordinate fundraising, but parents and students are responsible for organizing and participating in fundraising activities.