MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
For decades, high school foreign exchange students have enriched classrooms and communities across the United States, but many people still don’t know much about the organizations behind these global experiences.
International Student Exchange (ISE) is one of several organizations that facilitate these life-changing opportunities, helping match students from around the world with American host families and schools. Through ISE, students come to the U.S. to live with volunteer host families for a semester or full academic year, attending local high schools and immersing themselves in American culture.
The organization works with students from over 40 countries, placing them in communities of all sizes. Host families provide a bedroom, meals, and a welcoming environment. The students arrive with their own spending money and health insurance, and local coordinators provide support throughout the year to ensure a successful experience.
“A lot of people remember exchange students from when they were in school, but they don’t always know how it all works or how to get involved,” said Mashaela White of ISE in a recent interview. “We’re always looking for host families who are ready to share their lives and learn from a young person from another part of the world.”
“The benefits are truly mutual,” White explained. “Families get to experience a new culture from the comfort of their own home, and students get a chance to build lifelong relationships and see America in a personal way.”
Anyone interested in becoming a host family or learning more about the program can visit http://Newfrontier.iseusa.org or you can call White at (316) 530-7724.
As back-to-school season approaches, ISE is currently seeking host families for the upcoming school year. “You don’t need to have kids at home or speak another language — just an open heart and a willingness to share your everyday life.”
White adds that the deadline for the 2025-26 school year is July 31.