Tools

'Foreign' Exchange Students Visit Beaver River School

Story Published: May 3, 2012 at 5:17 PM EDT

Story Updated: May 3, 2012 at 6:45 PM EDT

The choir is squeezing in one last rehearsal before its big performance.

The opening number is Beaver River Central School's Alma Mater.

But, the signers are not Beaver River students.

They're the "Patriot Singers" from Independence High School in Charlotte, North Carolina.

They're at Beaver River on a cultural exchange.

"We're sharing music and they're sharing their homes and we're exchanging culture stories and north south stories and it's just been incredible," said Kristina Neale, Patriot Singers director.

North country culture is nothing new for Neale.

She was known as Miss Mallette when she taught French at Beaver River in the 80s and 90s.

But for her students these days, coming to school in the north country from a big city in the south was a bit of a culture shock.

"I love it. I think it's a great opportunity for us. It's completely different from what we're used to," said Chase Lewis of Independence High School.

It's an important opportunity for Beaver River students too.

"I hope they have some new friendships. I hope they learn about life outside of Lewis County," said Leueen Smithling, Beaver River superintendent.

Getting the visitors here took a lot of planning and money.

It cost $7,600 for air fare alone.

Smithling was able to secure $10,000 in grants to make it possible.

The Patriot Singers will be here through Sunday.

Beaver River students will travel to North Carolina next year.
 
Saturday, May 18, 2013
, Watertown, NY

On Demand

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On TonightFull Schedule

On Wall Street