Costa Rica Exchange Program

Led by Spanish teacher Sandra Rodriguez, this two-year program is designed to integrate curriculum, language, science, service learning and social studies. Seventh grade students travel to Costa Rica to experience Spanish language immersion, gain knowledge of Costa Rican history and experience Costa Rican culture first-hand. Eighth grade students host their pen-pals from Costa Rica for two weeks in the fall.

The program builds interest of Lower School students in the study of foreign language and provides opportunities for Middle School students to serve as role models to younger students. Costa Rica is a country rich in biodiversity with a strong Quaker presence and a commitment to peace. The first class to travel to Costa Rica went in March 2004.

The trip typically includes a visit to the town of Sarchi, one week of intensive language instruction, a tour of an organic coffee farm, a visit to a sugar cane plantation and refinery, a sky-trek canopy tour, classes at the Colegio Francisico J. Orlich, a visit to the Paos Volcano, a visit to Monteverde Friends School, white water rafting, a trip to a biological reserve in Curu, snorkeling around the Turtle Island.

Each year the seventh grade class raises funds to ensure that all students can participate, regardless of means, and to ensure that exchange students from Costa Rica are able to come visit.