January 25th was only the second day of our second semester. Many students were still getting settled in to their new schedules and it was the first day of snow since returning to school from winter break. It was also our day to host a group of students and teachers from Costa Rica while they were finishing up their break from school.
The Global Scholars program works with Costa Rica Frika to help provide a cultural exchange opportunity for students in Costa Rica and students here in Mukwonago. Every year Costa Rica students (Ticos) visit Wisconsin communities for two weeks. This year they were visiting Oconomowoc, but during that time they also like to experience other Wisconsin schools besides their host school. Based on our past interactions with Costa Rica Frika they wanted to return to Mukwonago for a one day visit, and we were happy to oblige.
The Ticos arrived at MHS around 9:30 where they were greeted by global scholars and Spanish IV and Spanish V students who gave them a tour of our school. It was a great opportunity for our students to practice their Spanish with native speakers and really put their past few years of learning to the test. The Costa Ricans loved our school. Coming from their school, where elective classes are not part of their day, they loved seeing our culinary lab, fabrication lab, ceramics & art area, photo area and mechanics shop. Actually seeing cars up in the air on lifts for students to work on enticed all of the Ticos to bring their phones out and take pictures.
After the tour they were paired up with more MHS students where they shadowed our students for two class periods and interacted with our classrooms and teachers. Many teachers expressed the excitement of having visitors in their room and participating in vocabulary games, sharing in discussion and having conversations as the Costa Rican students were able to take the opportunity to practice their English with native speakers. Lunch was provided for the students as one of our teachers, Sr. Huelsman cooked brats for the Costa Ricans so they could experience a true Wisconsin meal.
The Costa Ricans, MHS students and teachers had a wonderful day and we are hopeful for an opportunity to host again next year. Keep in mind, Costa Rica Frika may be looking for Mukwonago to be a main host community, finding families to host students for two weeks while they are here in the United States. Anyone interested can contact Mr. Montanye at montama@masd.k12.wi.us to be put on a list as information becomes available in the fall.