Aussies Visit Jim Hill Middle School

Around our area, there are a few different ways to say hello, but one you probably won't hear too...  More »

Around our area, there are a few different ways to say hello, but one you probably won't hear too often is G'day Mate! Well, students at Minot's Jim Hill Middle School might be hearing it a bit more over the next few weeks as a few new students wander the halls. Dan Erdmann has more. (Dan Erdmann, KX News) It's a relationship that began 4 years ago, and now for the second time, a group of students has gone from Down Under, to Up Yonder. In 2004, Chris French, a school teacher from Mackay, Queensland, Australia, attended a conference in Minneapolis and he was hoping to form a school partnership in the U.S. After hearing the idea, it didn't take long for Jim Hill Principal, Cindy Mau, to answer the call. (Cindy Mau, Jim Hill Principal) It's a great experience for our kids to enjoy each other's countries and get to know kids from around the world. The common theme that brings us together is 'Character Counts' and so, we want to do a lot of character projects together. (Dan Erdmann, KX News) In 2005, 38 students from the Whitsunday Anglican School experienced life at Jim Hill, and this time around, 26 Aussies have made the journey for 10 days of learning and leisure. Traveling across the globe, it might be difficult knowing what to expect, but so far, students say they've felt right at home and are looking forward to what lies ahead. (Rachel Lagan, Whitsunday Anglican School) I thought maybe everyone would be a bit not accepting of you and be like 'Oh, Australians, keep away.' But they're all really nice saying 'I want to meet you.' And saying hello to you when you walk past. It's been really nice. (Nikki Greer / Whitsunday Anglican School) I really want to see what it's like to be in a Jim Hill, American classroom and see how much different it is than an Australian classroom. (Dan Erdmann, KX News) Each of the students will stay with a host family from the school and get a domestic view of the Magic City as well. French says Minot has become like a second home to him and he knows his students will gain just as much from their visit. (Chris French, Student Chaperone) I like to think that they come to the realization that kids are kids, no matter where they are in the world and that in America, it's not what they see on TV. That what they experience here in Minot, is what I believe America is all about. (Dan Erdmann, KX News) And it's quite the adventure for a group of 12 and 13-year-olds to take on, but in case you haven't noticed, it's pretty exciting for the students at Jim Hill as well. Dan Erdmann, KX News. The Australian students and their 3 teachers will be in Minot through September 30th, and along with school, they'll get to experience the Badlands, a pow wow, and even a day at the Hostfest.  « Less