As part of the Michigan-Shiga Student Exchange Program, Traverse City East and West Junior High Schools will host ten students and four chaperones from Koka City, Japan, September 13^th through September 19, 2007. During their visit, exchange students will each stay with a host student and family, attend school, visit historical places, and participate in the host family’s daily life. The students who are visiting Traverse City also served as hosts for TCAPS’ students who traveled to Koka City for a week in the 2006-2007 school year.

In addition to attending school with their host students, the visiting students and chaperones will spend time learning more about the Grand Traverse area. Some of the scheduled excursions include:

·        Music House Museum        

·        Downtown Traverse City Tour

·        Visit with Mayor Linda Smyka, and Other City Officials

·        Attend September 17^th TC City Council Meeting

·        Sleeping Bear National Park

·        Farewell Reception at West Junior High School on September 19^th

The Michigan-Shiga Student Exchange Program was initiated by the Michigan Department of Education and the Shiga Board of Education in 1990. The program offers students the opportunity

to experience a different educational system, a new culture, and the world marketplace. The program aligns with TCAPS’ vision to prepare every student with the knowledge and strategies for a lifetime of successful learning and global citizenship.

Please call 933-1777 for further information.