x
Breaking News
More () »

Minnesota families needed to host international students

Some students approved to study in the U.S. are still waiting in their home countries because there aren't enough families applying to host them.

MINNEAPOLIS — It's officially fall. Hopefully by now your kids have come to terms with being back in school.

There's no question about it for Southwest High School sophomore Jaime Garcia Fernandez. He's an exchange student from Madrid, Spain.

Brandon D'Angelo and Eric Daggs are hosting him through the study abroad organization Youth for Understanding USA.

"I really love them," Garcia Fernandez said. "They're like my parents."

Garcia Fernandez was quick to make friends at school. He enjoys working out at the YMCA and plans to attend the Homecoming dance.

"I was scared at first but then I made some friends," he said. "I'm really comfortable here."

But something is preventing other exchange students from getting a similar experience.

According to both YFU USA and study abroad organization AFS-USA, some students are approved to study in the U.S. this year but are still waiting in their home countries because there aren't enough families applying to host them.

READ MORE: Students get to 'be themselves' in social justice classes

Another issue? While some school districts are wide open with enrollment, others only accept a set number of international students. So by the time families decide to host, it may be too late.

YFU USA says Minneapolis schools are full for the year. However, St. Paul area schools are still accepting students.

If anyone in that area is interested in hosting an international student, they're encouraged to check out the list of available students through YFU USA under the Hosting section.

Commitments range from a short-term basis of up to 12 weeks to the entire school year.

READ MORE: Educators address 'passive bullying' in schools

YFU says anyone living outside of the St. Paul area is encouraged to apply to host during the 2020-2021 school year. Starting the application now would help ensure there is enough time to find the perfect fit for your family.


You may reach YFU USA at 1.800.TEENAGE or at yfuusa.org.

READ MORE: 'STEAM' is the focus at new school in Brooklyn Park

Before You Leave, Check This Out