Parents of home schooled high school students looking to broaden their child's education and perspective may consider international programs for study abroad. While the vast majority of exchange programs for this age require that students attend a local high school, an increasing number recognize home-based study. Exchange programs emphasize language and cultural study through home stays, excursions and small group study.
FLSAS
The Foreign Language Study Abroad Service offers foreign language programs and home stays for middle and high school aged students. Individuals, small groups and families with or without prior language skills are welcome. Students live with a native-speaking family in one of 35 countries for immersion in the local culture and language acquisition. College credit may be available.
Adventures Abroad
Home school students can study French, German, or Spanish for a week or more with Adventures Abroad. Summer programs are available in Costa Rica, England, France, Italy and Spain for students grades 9 through 12. Adventures Abroad also offers family programs in Costa Rica, Spain, Ecuador and Mexico with opportunities for community service, immersion into local arts and cooking.
Rotary Youth Exchange
Short and long-term exchange programs are available through the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Students ages 15 to 19 may chose to study in the country of their choice for 3 weeks to a year. High school attendance requirements vary by country for long-term stays. Rotary club membership is not required, and financial assistance may be available through your local Rotary organization.
Cemanahuac Educational Community
High shool students can study at the Cemanahuac Educational Community in Cuernavaca, Mexico. In support of home schooling, CEC offers small, personalized classes for the entire family. Students who live who with a Mexican family receive reduced rates for home school students from August to April.
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Hailing from Austin, Texas, Beth Berry has been writing since 1995 about sustainable farming, fiber arts and parenting. She brings expertise in organic gardening, landscape design and domestic arts to her writing. Berry holds a Bachelor of Science in environmental science from Abilene Christian University and is a master seamstress.