Student exchange organizations are always looking for host families, and the definition of “family” is very broad. The application process is rigorous, but those interested are encouraged to apply. After filling out an online application and participating in an interview, families must pass a criminal background check. “You need to be ‘open-minded and flexible.’ This […]
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Lifestyle news from the Sun Journal.
Posted inbPlus, Lewiston-Auburn, Schools & Education
Local families say learning goes both ways with student exchange experiences
Stefanie Mahr Damien and her husband, Steve, have hosted two exchange students in their Auburn home since 2018. “We are empty-nesters. My children are now 31 and 34. Steve’s children are twins that are 41. This is our second marriages. So, we affectionately call exchange students ‘our kids’ because we didn’t have kids together,” Stefanie […]
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Posted inbPlus, Franklin
Face Time: Farmington woman shares her love of family, education and community in homeschool co-op
Victoria Staples, 31, established Root & Bloom Homeschool Co-op in September 2023 in Farmington to support other families also on a homeschooling journey.
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Mystery Photo for June 23, 2024
Correctly guess where this photo was taken and you could win a $25 Hannaford Supermarket gift card.
Posted inbPlus
In a word: The hustle and its ‘weasel’ language
This ‘limited edition’ column is on sale now! And probably again next season.
Posted inbPlus, Lewiston-Auburn, News, Schools & Education
Many host families in Maine, but fewer schools for exchange students
While many Mainers are willing to open their homes to students from around the world, there are not as many Maine schools that take in exchange students. “Maine’s a wonderful state with down-to-earth families that are just so kind and generous,” says Raymond resident Kathy Hansen of Greenheart Exchange, one of several national groups that […]
Posted inbPlus, Lewiston-Auburn, Mark LaFlamme
Mark LaFlamme: The Colisee is haunted and other breaking news
Talk of the town: Given the current situation with manliness, I’ll be Mothman over Butterflyman any day.
Posted inbPlus, Schools & Education
‘Norman and I are like brothers, as well as friends:’ The life-changing impact of student exchange.
A friendship forged in Lewiston 36 years ago brought two generations of exchange students together, decades apart.
Posted inbPlus, Lewiston-Auburn, News
Lewiston-Auburn’s treatment plant turns 50. Its legacy: A cleaner, healthier Androscoggin River
The plant, a result of the federal Clean Water Act, has processed billions of gallons of waste. ‘It’s the same thing that happens in Mother Nature. It’s just larger scale here.’
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Mystery Photo for June 16, 2024
Correctly guess where this photo was taken and you could win a $25 Hannaford Supermarket gift card.