Homestay Program
At Covenant Christian High School, we believe in fostering a global community that enriches the educational experience for all students. Our International Student Homestay Program is a vital part of this mission, offering unique opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual learning.
As a host family, you play a crucial role in our international students’ lives, providing them with a nurturing and safe environment as they navigate their academic journey far from home. It’s an opportunity to make a significant impact, offering guidance, support, and a warm family atmosphere that extends beyond borders.
If you’re considering opening your home and heart to an international student, you’re embarking on an incredibly rewarding journey. On this page, you’ll find all the information you need to understand the homestay process, the expectations, and how to become a host family. We invite you to join us in making a difference in a young person’s life and enriching your family’s experience.
Ways to Serve
There are two main ways to serve in the Homestay program: 10 month hosting, and respite hosting. The third is offering support as a language and academic support volunteer.
10 Month Program
Becoming a 10-Month Host Family offers an incredible opportunity to welcome an international student into your home for the academic year, from August to May. This commitment allows you to deeply engage with and support a student from another culture, enriching your family’s life through shared experiences, learning, and understanding.
Students typically arrive a week before school starts, integrating into your family and community before the academic rush begins. While some may return to their home countries during Christmas break and J-Term, they will be a part of your family through the school year, returning home at the year’s end.
Respite Housing
Respite Hosting provides a flexible, short-term commitment for families interested in supporting our international program without the year-long duration. These brief hosting experiences, typically lasting between 1 to 7 days, are crucial for offering students a comfortable and caring environment during shorter school breaks or transitions.
Families who engage in 10-Month Hosting are also offered respite care options, ensuring support and flexibility throughout the year. Respite Hosting is an excellent way for more families to participate in our international program, offering a taste of cultural exchange and the joy of supporting a young person far from home.
Language and Academic Support Volunteer
Volunteering as a Language and Academic Support provider is another invaluable way to serve Covenant’s international program. This role is designed for individuals who may not have the capacity to host students in their homes but still wish to make a significant impact on their educational journey. By offering language tutoring, homework help, or academic mentoring, you can assist international students in overcoming language barriers and adapting to the academic demands of a new educational system.
Ready to Connect?
If your family is interested in learning more about long-term and short-term hosting opportunities please complete
“As the Homestay Coordinator, I look forward to matching international students with the most suitable host family for them. Our host families are caring people who seek to invest in the lives of our international students, while providing them the opportunity to live with an American family. It will be my pleasure to support both the students and the host families throughout the whole homestay process.”
Becky Harber
International Program Homestay Coordinator
