(Including photos from host families!)
For more information on the French Exchange Program at CV: Click Here
"Bienvenue à nos amis de Castres, France!" Chenango Valley is excited to welcome 23 students from France into our school community for the next two weeks!
On the morning of October 17, the group was officially welcomed to our schools. They learned about the Chenango Valley Central School District and shared some insight on their own educational system. They were then able to tour the CV High School campus with Madame Henyan and Principal Ostrander. In the afternoon, CV Middle/High School educators had the chance to meet with the French Exchange teachers and get to know them better.
On October 18, the French Exchange students were able to take part in classes with their CV host students.
On the morning of October 19, CV High School social studies teacher and World Champion/Guinness World Record-holding professional strongman Bill Clark shared a strength presentation with our French Exchange students! He also shared inspiring words and encouraged them to always put in their best effort. Thank you, Mr. Clark!
Following Mr. Clark's presentation on October 19, the French Exchange students had the opportunity to meet Broome County Executive Jason Garnar and then tour the Binghamton Fire Department! Afterwards, the group visited Recreation Park in Binghamton to enjoy lunch and ride on the carousel.
On October 20, the French Exchange students started the day with an energetic drumming activity with Mrs. Price, then they went to Ithaca to visit Buttermilk Falls and the Museum of the Earth! This was followed by a fun volleyball tournament with their host students and French Club members.
On October 21, the group had the opportunity to visit the Roberson Museum. They were able to watch a show in the planetarium, explore the Haudenosaunee exhibit, and tour the museum's mansion. The French Exchange students also visited the CHOW Warehouse. They packed 122 emergency food bags in 30 minutes. Thank you for helping to make a positive difference!
On October 24, chefs at Binghamton University showed our French Exchange students how a traditional Thanksgiving dinner is cooked. The students loved both the demonstration and being able to eat the food. Afterwards, the group enjoyed time ice skating at SUNY Broome!
On October 25, the French Exchange students first stopped by Chenango Bridge Elementary. CB Student Council members enthusiastically helped to show them around the school building, and they visited some classrooms to talk to students and answer questions. The French Exchange students were then able to explore the Chenango Schoolhouse Museum and learn about the rich history of the area. Afterwards, the group went to Port Dickinson Elementary, where some friendly second grade students helped to guide them to classrooms. Port Dickinson students enjoyed listening to French children’s stories, asking the visitors a plethora of questions, and learning how to speak in French.
On October 26, the French Exchange students met Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham (who is also a CV alumnus), learned about the local government, and were able to ask him questions. In addition, they created beautiful autumn paintings at Uncorked Creations. Nice job!
On October 27, the French Exchange students visited the WSKG studios to learn about public/local TV/radio. They also visited the Worldwide Sports Supply print shop, where their exchange T-shirts and welcome bags were created! In addition, the group had the chance to shop at the Town Square Mall.
On October 28, the French Exchange students were able to visit CV Middle School and High School classes. They were also surprised by the CV High School band learning the French National Anthem to play for them!