Local representatives of a group known as International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) are currently looking for host homes in the Mackinaw area for the 2022-2023 school year. For those unaware, the ICES is an international non-profit student academic and exchange organization dedicated to promoting a peaceful world by increasing international awareness and cultural understanding. With the help of ICES, students from around the globe can study in America for a certain duration. Some students may stay for only a semester - others may stay as long as a full school year. The Mackinaw Mail spoke with Angie Reedy, local Field Manager for ICES, to find out a bit more.

Angie points out that foreign students coming to study in America are highly motivated individuals who speak proficient English and typically love participating in local programs, whether those are sports, music, or community oriented projects. “The ultimate goal”, Angie says, is “to integrate the students as a family member, meaning they participate in all family activities, including helping around the house.” Angie also notes that her job isn’t just recruiting host families and gaining needed permissions from local schools and other governing agencies, but also to stay in contact with visiting students to make sure that they have an extra layer of support during their time in America. Angie’s work keeps her connected to many schools in the local area and she says that all are very open to the prospect of hosting foreign exchange students - the larger issue is finding families who are willing and able to host.

If you are one of those families who are willing and able to host a foreign exchange student, you can find more information at icesusa.org or you can contact Angie Reedy directly at areedy@icesusa.org. She will explain everything and walk you through the process. Hopefully, Dee-Mack high school will see a foreign exchange student in the coming year.