Program Summary

During fall semester of every school year, Newton hosts a group of 7-9 students and 1-2 teachers from the Beijing Jingshan School. In spring semester, the Newton - Beijing Jingshan School Exchange Program sends two Newton teachers and a group of students from both Newton North and Newton South to the Jingshan School in Beijing, Newton Public Schools' sister school. While in Beijing, teachers teach English and continue their own study of Chinese (Mandarin). Students attend classes in Chinese language, history, art, music, math, science, and martial arts — all in Chinese.

Program Details

Qualifications

The requirements for successful candidates for the Exchange are:

a keen spirit of adventure

commitment to learn Chinese

flexibility in travel and living arrangements

willingness and enthusiasm to serve as an ambassador

a lively esprit de corps

Living Arrangements

Both the Newton group in Beijing and the Jingshan group in Newton live with host families.

Time of Stay

The Newton group spends the spring semester in Beijing — approximately four months.

Hosting

The Newton group hosts students from the Jingshan school in the fall semester — approximately four months.

Preparation

During the first two weeks in August, the Exchange requires Newton participants to attend a summer language and culture program, and continue study of Chinese language and culture in the fall. All preparation is provided by the Newton Public Schools.

Newton Public Schools
100 Walnut Street
Newton, MA 02460

Beijing Jingshan School
53 Dengshikou
East City District
Beijing 100006
People's Republic of China

US Department of State
This toll free number and e-mail can be used by host families, exchange students and the public to report circumstances impacting exchange students’ health, safety and well being during their exchange visitor programs.
1.866.283.9090
jvisas@state.gov

Past Teachers
If you are interested in talking to past exchange teachers, please contact Star Lew, Program Specialist, at jingshan@newton.k12.ma.us for contact information. The past teachers will be more than happy to talk to you about China and answer any of your questions.