What are the international students like?

The students are as diverse as the children in our homes. Most of the students currently applying to study here are from Asia, predominantly South Korea and Taiwan. They are intent on getting a Christian, western education, and most come from a Christian home. Many come as Christians, some come as inquirers, all come as God's creation. There is no one predominant personality common to the international students.

What do I provide for an international student?

You provide a room, which may be shared with another child if requested, a bed, closet/dresser space, a desk or quiet place to study, food, and the love and guidance you would provide for your own child.

What about tuition? Clothing? Other expenses?

Tuition is paid by the international parents of the student, and those arrangements are made directly between the school and the student's parents. Students usually open a bank account here, and pay for their own clothing, special cosmetics, hair cuts, extracurricular activities, and entertainment costs.

What about medical care?

Each student is required to have medical insurance coverage when they register at LCS. In case of a medical emergency, the student may be taken to the doctor of your choice or, of course, the nearest emergency care center. Any out-of-pocket medical costs are the student's responsibility.

Must I provide special foods?

The student is expected to eat what your family normally eats; however, it is part of the fun to experiment with international foods and introduce each other to a new cuisine. If the student requires unusual foods, those would also be his or her responsibility to purchase. Of course, if your entire family dines out, it would naturally be expected that you would include the student.

Is a host family paid anything?

You would receive a per semester stipend to cover your room and board costs. Some students pay this fee monthly, some pay per semester. The stipend in 2007-2008 will be $3,000 per semester. This is not considered taxable income since it covers the expenses of hosting.

For how long do I host?

Most families commit to a year, but there have been circumstances that require an earlier change.

Do I sign an agreement? And does the student sign an agreement?

Yes, both the hosts and the students sign an agreement. See Host Family Agreement Form and Student Home Stay Agreement Form below to see what these include.

What about transportation to and from school?

Students ride the school bus if possible. Of course they may walk if close enough to school. Driving a student would be required if bus service is not available. Each family also does their best to accommodate the extracurricular activities, as you would normally do with your own child. Most students do not have a driver's license, and those who do are not allowed to drive the host family car.

What if I have to leave home for an overnight?

If you must travel without the international student, the student may not stay in your home for the duration of your trip, unless there is an adult present overnight. You may either ask a friend or relative to stay with the student, or the student may stay in someone else's home, such as a friend or family friend, if arrangements are made with the adults who will be responsible. If you are unable to find a temporary host, you may contact the international student coordinator.

What if there are problems with the student's behavior?

If you are unable to resolve a matter with a student, you are invited to communicate with the coordinator, and together decide what course of action to take. If there are special academic needs, these are addressed by the Special Academic Services director.

How do I become a host family?

Click on the Host Family Application below, fill it out and send to Darren Johnson, or print it and return it to the central office (address at end of application).