Summary:

Student exchanges increase participants' understanding and tolerance of other cultures and broaden their social horizons. What if we facilitates similar student exchanges locally? Wayzata students could stay with Somalian families in north Minneapolis. Urban kids could stay with farm kids. Christian kids with Jewish kids. They would get immersed in cultures and religions not their own, all without leaving the state. It could be administered the same way international exchanges are - with families undergoing background checks and students having to apply.

Host families would benefit as well. By gaining a new son or daughter, they participate in the evolving process of promoting peace through mutual respect and understanding.

Alumni of the program would become local ambassadors by promoting cultural awareness and expanding the perspectives of those around them.

Student exchanges can help bring the world closer – and make some good friends in the process.