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The Eagle Exchange's mission is to create an
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Mt. Ararat High School
Mt. Ararat opened its doors in 1973 to serve the needs of the students of its four sending towns: Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Harpswell, and Topsham. Mt. Ararat is the name long associated with the hill immediately behind the school with a fire tower at the crest. Before the school opened, students suggested possible names. The name Mt. Ararat was selected from among the many student entries. Our school colors are royal blue, red, and white. Our school's mascot is the American Bald Eagle; that is how our program's name was derived. Mt. Ararat High School is accredited by the New England Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges.
Where in the World is Topsham, Maine?
Mt. Ararat is in Topsham, a small town located in the Mid Coast area of Maine. It is a part of Maine School Administrative District (M.S.A.D. 75) that boasts 18,000 inhabitants. The district lies 30 miles north of Portland, the state's largest city, and 150 miles north of Boston. The four towns that make up M.S.A.D. 75 are rural with no public transportation available. Exchange students must rely upon host families and friends for transportation. The climate in Maine is one of extremes. Average temperatures range from 75ö in the summer to 20ö in the winter. Snow is common in winter.
Living Arrangements
Exchange students will live with host families and attend Mt. Ararat High School. The host families accept the exchange visitor as a new son or daughter. They provide a warm and loving environment which fosters personal growth and development, academic progress, and life-long friendship. The families provide parental counseling, guidance and understanding. Through these living arrangements exchange students will learn about life in the United States, family relationships, personal relationships, cultural variances, and value systems.
Orientation
Three orientations are planned for students coming to Mt. Ararat. The first orientation is conducted prior to departure from their own country. Topics covered include specific information regarding both Mt. Ararat High School and Maine, packing instructions and suggestions, intercultural communication strategies, as well as expectations and guidelines for conduct and behavior. Orientation will be conducted by the Program Representative in the sending country. The second orientation will be conducted upon arrival in Maine. Students will receive an informal orientation to the area and to the school. Course of study will be chosen at this time. A welcoming reception will be planned. The third orientation will be conducted prior to the students' return to his or her home country. Students will participate in a reentry orientation, within two months of their return to their home country. Included in the orientation: self-evaluation, anticipating reactions to changes in self and home and program evaluation.
Academic Program
The plan of study will be based on student's academic abilities, interests, motivation and any requirements directed from the sending country. Special English language training is offered as a regular high school course. If the student is interested in a U.S. high school diploma he/she must make that known upon arrival.
Excursions and Activities
A wide variety of activities are arranged, both through Mt. Ararat High School and through the exchange program. Students will be encouraged to participate in programs and teams offered by the high school. Special cross-cultural programs and events are also planned: Boston International Festival, trip to State Capital, local museums, and Annual Language Program. Organized excursions and participation in typical Maine activities may include: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding,ice fishing, lobster boat trip, contra dancing and local festivals.
Mt. Ararat High School Web Site