A group of middle school students from Westminster Christian Academy’s sister school Saemmul Christian Academy in Seoul, South Korea is visiting Westminster to attend January Camp, which provides them the opportunity to learn in the classroom alongside American students and teachers and experience American culture firsthand. Twenty-one Korean students and two faculty are in attendance at this year’s camp and are living with Westminster host families during their visit. They are experiencing a selection of challenging classes and high-quality, intensive ESL classes as they live the Westminster Christian Academy vision of embracing and integrating a biblical worldview into every area of life. Weekend field trips to the St. Louis Arch, Science Center, City Museum, Art Museum, and the Cathedral Basilica will enrich their cultural experience, as will a trip to Chicago during their visit to the U.S. All those involved will also participate in a large potluck dinner during the students’ stay.
January Camp presents unique opportunities for both the Korean and Westminster students, who form friendships with one another during this time. Director of International Program Dani Butler says the experience of January Camp helps prepare Westminster students to make an impact in a global world. “It is not only a wonderful opportunity for the visiting Korean students, but it is also extremely beneficial for our Westminster students,” says Butler. “Eleven families have volunteered to take on the huge commitment of hosting Korean children for four weeks so that their own children can be exposed to foreign culture here at home. It really does bring all of our families together.”