German American Partnership Program gives Northgate students a new world view.
Northgate students travelled this summer to Germany as part of their study of German. Fifteen students and two teachers, Ms. Marek and Ms. Maddern, participated in a three-week trip.
The group spent the first 5 days in Berlin visiting the Reichstag (German Parliament) and got an in depth understanding of the daily life in a divided city.
The group continued their travel by train to Stuttgart, where they received a warm welcome by their host families. The host students visited Northgate last October and were eager to show their American friends their school and town. The American students were welcomed by the mayor and principal at the Eduard Spranger Gymnasium (High School) where for the next two weeks they enriched the cultural knowledge of the English classes by giving presentations. The Presentations were on a variety of topics from being a boy scout to the political system in the USA. Some of the Highlights was a weekend canoeing trip on the Danube river, visiting Mercedes and Porsche factory, old University city of Tuebingen and many historic sites.
Here are a few comments the students made about the trip:
Most importantly I will remember what an exceptional experience it was to see Germany through the lives of people who really live here. Living with a family than just touring adds a whole new level to the trip.
I will remember my host family and their kindness and generosity and the fact that they put so much time and effort into taking care of me and making sure I was happy.
I will remember the food and the ease of transportation. My host family is the sweetest people.
I will certainly remember the friendships and connections made. I will miss Dőners ( creek sandwich) and Spezzi ( cola and orange soda mixed)
It was a great experience! More kids should get involved with this exchange program.
Northgate offers German 1 – 5AP and since 2010 is participating in the German American Partnership Program. German students are expected in October 2013 to visit Northgate High School.
