GAPP (German American Partnership Program) is a program that connects American schools to German schools and gives students the opportunity to host another student, or travel to visit a partner family. HAHS has this exchange program that takes place every year, and this year it is taking place in October. The goal for this time being earlier in the year, rather than during spring last year, is to show the German students the Halloween traditions that take place in America that they may not be familiar with.
There are 15 families, according to Frau Stevens, who is the advisor of this, involved in such an interesting and amazing opportunity this year to share and learn traditions, or make new memories that some people would not get the chance to get. Getting the opportunity to host a German student also opens the door to getting to travel to Germany in the summer.
Kaylum Riegel, a sophomore in German 2, has decided to host a student for the second time, because last year was fun for the two of them, and the fact it is taking place during fall, October 9th to October 20th, will open more fun activities to do, like going to a pumpkin patch to carve them, going through a corn maze, and possibly Pennhurst Asylum, which is said to be haunted. Kaylum thinks it is a good learning experience, as he stated, “…it’s honestly a great experience to invite another culture into your home to experience how they live and so they can understand how you live.”
Arianna Naranjo, who is another sophomore in German 2, is not able to take a student, but she has similar views on the benefits of hosting one. “…it’s a good way for people to learn more about a person that lives in a different culture and help them get accustomed to American culture,” Arianna stated. She also believes that when providing a house for a German student to stay in, it is important to make sure they are comfortable, so respecting them if they do not want to take part in an activity is essential.
The German club made this opportunity open for all students here at HAHS, giving everyone a chance to take part in such an incredible experience. If any students are interested in this opportunity next year, please contact Frau Stevens. For more information about GAPP visit : https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/5924
