Thai students enjoy Hudson experience
The past two and a half weeks flew by for Thai teacher Charat Traiboon and six Thai students who spent that time living with Hudson families, going to Hudson schools and learning about life in the United States, Wisconsin-style.By: Meg Heaton, Hudson Star-Observer
- Local families and the Thai students they hosted
- From left, Nam Neesanan, Tai Jeranukosol, Pan Wangpreedalertkul, Non Neesanan, Pe Traiboon and Peach Pitaksuteepon
The past two and a half weeks flew by for Thai teacher Charat Traiboon and six Thai students who spent that time living with Hudson families, going to Hudson schools and learning about life in the United States, Wisconsin-style.
At a farewell breakfast last Wednesday, Traiboon and the students, all middle or high school age, performed a Thai folkdance and enjoyed a final meal with their host families and other friends they had made during the trip.
Traiboon, who teaches English and Japanese in Kanchanaburi Province, said he and the students were overwhelmed by the warm welcome they received in the host homes and at the middle and high schools.
“They were, of course, a little scared and did not know what to expect, but we have had such a wonderful time and it is something none of us will forget.”
While here, the students attended some classes at both schools and shared information about life and school in Thailand. While at Hudson High School, they conducted a cooking class and shared regional dishes. In addition to attending classes, they also participated or watched several school sports and took several field trips including a Twins game, the Minnesota Science Museum and the Mall of America.
Traiboon said as a teacher he was especially impressed with the house system at the Hudson Middle School because “it allows teachers and students to for a closer bond and get to know one another better.” He also had high praise for the conduct and discipline he saw being exercised at HHS.
“I could not believe they passed so quickly and orderly between classes. It was only seven minutes.”
Traiboon said the highlight of his visit was an airplane ride over the Mississippi River flown by HHS Associate Principal Scott Huffman. “I have read about the river many times but it was something very special to see it that way.”
Traiboon said he and the students will never forget the hospitality shown to them in Hudson and hope that it is the beginning of a more permanent connection. Associate Director of Learning Services Peg Shoemaker said the district hopes to establish a “sister school” relationship with the Thai students’ school.
“We feel very fortunate to have made this visit and are very grateful to our host families and everyone who has made us feel so welcome,” said Traiboon, who said in his farewell that they could leave happy now knowing about cheese curds and brats.
Tags: education, hudson, schools, thailand, students
More from around the web
RSS Feeds