Peruvian Exchange Students Say Farewell to Barnesville School Fri

Michele, Andrea, Rodrigo, and Joaquin have been part of the Barnesville School community for the past few weeks. These students from Lima, Peru along with their chaperone, Silvia, have lived with Barnesville host families, attended classes alongside our students, and gone on field trips around the region. With their journey here coming to an end, these new friends will be missed but not forgotten.
Before saying farewell, the students gave a presentation to the entire Barnesville Middle School about animals native to Peru, such as the Humboldt penguin, the pink dolphin, and the anaconda. They shared facts about animals found in four distinct regions: the coast, rainforest, mountains, and the ocean. They made note of endangered animals such as the Cotrarrama bird, ocelot, Carey turtle, and the Amazonic sea cow. Responding to a question, they explained that there are not many sharks in Peru because the water is too cold along much of the coast.
The exchange students also shared highlights of their trip to the U.S., including trying skiing and snowboarding. Photos of their trip to the National Mall are on Facebook. They said the thing they miss most about Peru is the food.
In describing what they like to do in their free time, they had familiar answers -- they like to hang out with friends, play soccer, draw, and watch Netflix. They said they felt at home here, so much so that they would often forget to speak in English, slipping into Spanish while with their host families. They extended thanks to the Barnesville students who hosted them -- Charlie, Sean, Jack, and Taylor.
Earlier in the day, their chaperone Silvia met with parents curious about the exchange program, explaining what life is like in Peru for Barnesville students who participate. She extended an invitation for students to apply to participate this summer and in coming years.
Before formal goodbyes, everyone enjoyed cake and socializing. Photos of the farewell party can be viewed on Facebook.
The Barnesville Middle School participates in a student foreign exchange program with the Leonardo Da Vinci School (LDVS) located in Lima, Peru. Seventh or eighth grade students from LDVS visit Barnesville for three weeks in January and February each year. They live with a host student and family and are immersed in school classes and activities as well as attend planned field trips. In June and July, Barnesville sends three or four of our students to Peru to participate in their classes and culture. Students experience field trips to learn about the rich history of Peru.