Argentine Students Enrich West Ridge High Exchange Experience
A group of 19 students from Argentina recently visited West Ridge High School in Kingsport, Tennessee, as part of a cultural exchange program aimed at fostering international relationships and language learning. The visit was supported by local families, including Sullivan County School Board Chairman Matt Price, who hosted one of the students, and community member Rodney Padgett, who welcomed the only male student in the group.
During a Sullivan County Board of Education meeting, Price expressed enthusiasm for the exchange, saying, “She taught us a ton,” and noted that he likely enjoyed the experience even more than his daughter did. Padgett shared similar sentiments, highlighting the various local attractions they visited, including Dollywood and the Haunted Forest. He emphasized the enriching experience for his family and encouraged others to consider hosting foreign exchange students in the future.
The exchange program was initiated by Dr. Sarah Mould, a Spanish teacher at West Ridge. Mould connected with a former student who later taught in Argentina and established a partnership with a language school named Lenguas Vivas. This institution conducts exchange programs with schools in several countries, including England and France. Mould noted, “It had gotten so popular they needed another school in the United States,” adding that West Ridge students are expected to visit Argentina at the end of May and the beginning of June.
Both Price and Padgett pointed out the language proficiency of the visiting students, who were fluent in English, enhancing the interaction between them and their host families. Padgett’s son, who studies Spanish, was able to converse with the Argentine student in his native language, adding to the cultural exchange’s depth.
Community Support and Educational Growth
The success of this exchange has been attributed to the support from the school administration, especially Principal George Laoo, and Director of Schools Chuck Carter. Mould expressed her gratitude, stating, “This wouldn’t have happened if it weren’t for the administration.” She also acknowledged the contributions of her fellow Spanish teachers, Jennie Case and Sarah LaGuardia, who hosted students during the visit.
In addition to the cultural exchange, the Sullivan County Retired Teachers Association held a meeting where they awarded a $750 grant to Michele Harbaugh from Mary Hughes Elementary School for a project focusing on a Christmas around the world social studies initiative. The school will also receive an additional $250 to support the project.
During the meeting, Angela Shaffer, a member of the retired teachers group, presented a historical perspective on education, embodying her grandmother, Willia Lorna Fleenor, who was born in 1900. Shaffer discussed the founding of National Education Week in 1921, a response to the post-World War I literacy crisis when a significant portion of draftees were found to be illiterate.
Technological Advancements and Future Plans
The school board also received updates on new technology initiatives, including new websites and social media strategies presented by technology facilitator Eric Maynard. These efforts include the introduction of an artificial intelligence-driven tool called “Hey Sully” for school employees, along with a new resource for parents and the community set to launch soon.
Additionally, the Sullivan County school system received a Silver Level dual enrollment award from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) for its commitment to career technical education. A total of 484 students from grades 9-12 are currently enrolled in TCAT dual enrollment programs, highlighting the district’s dedication to providing vocational training opportunities.
The recent visit from Argentine students has not only strengthened international ties but has also fostered a spirit of collaboration and cultural appreciation within the Kingsport community. As more exchanges are planned, the potential for enhancing educational experiences continues to grow.
