For the first time ever, the Bischöfliche Grundschule St. Matthias Bitburg conducted a student exchange program with the Spangdahlem Elementary School. The program initially started last year in the form of a pen-pal relationship, with each student being assigned an exchange partner. Then, they exchanged information about their own hobbies, pets and other topics, in each other’s language.
On 29 April, the children from Grundschule St. Matthias traveled to Spangdahlem Air Base with principal Waltraud Kruppert and class teacher Petra Schneider to meet their exchange partners in person – a long-awaited day on which the children got to know their American friends’ daily school life through fun and games. At the same time, they learned lots of interesting facts about the Air Base. The fact that F-16 fighter jets could be heard and seen during the outdoor sports lessons was of little concern to the American students, whereas this was unfamiliar territory for the German kids.
The return visit by the American students took place on 2 May. This day was also filled with many new impressions and experiences. Music in particular stood in the foreground as a common language. The newly formed friendships deepened as they played music together.
As a highlight, District Administrator Andreas Kruppert came to Grundschule St. Matthias to welcome the American guests and express his excitement about the intercultural exchange. After his welcoming speech, District Administrator Kruppert, who is also a vice chairman of the Host Nation Council Spangdahlem e.V., spontaneously answered the many questions that the kids fired away. For example, the children wanted to know what American candy he particularly likes. The District Administrator’s good command of English made for a relaxed and lively conversation. The school exchange program is financially supported by Host Nation Council Spangdahlem e.V.. Due to the positive response, further student exchange programs are planned for the future.
Text from the district news of June 1st 2024 (issue 22/2024)
