Questions

How are the students matched to the families?

The Homestay Coordinator reviews the student’s application and determines what their likes/dislikes are; if there are any allergies; if they are musical; if they are from a large family; etc. The Homestay Coordinator then finds a family that has similar interests and experiences. This is not a science and sometimes the match is not quite right and a student may need to be moved. This is not to be viewed as a criticism of either the homestay family or the student.

Can we have more than one student?

We have found that for many students and homestay families having 2 international students works really well, especially for homes with no other children. We do not place students together if they have the same first language. If a student or a homestay family wishes to be with or have 2 international students we try to accommodate them.

What kinds of things should the student pay for?

  • Clothes
  • School supplies
  • Personal toiletries
  • Computer internet access: We encourage students to use the family wifi, or family computer for internet access. Students are expected to demonstrate a moral and ethical approach to the use of the computer. We encourage candid discussion between the student and the Homestay family regarding Internet conduct and usage. Many students have their own computer/laptop.
  • Cell Phones: We encourage all students to have a cell phone while they are here. YOU MUST NOT SIGN A PLAN OR HAVE A STUDENT ADDED TO YOUR PERSONAL PLAN. We recommend that students get Pay-As-You-Go text plans (month-month only) with unlimited text and some talk time.
  • Long-distance phone calls: Many homes have good long-distance plans already. Alternatively, students can use telephone cards to make long-distance calls. Do not allow a student to run up a bill on your account.
  • Medicines of all kinds
  • Dental work
  • Haircuts and other personal services
  • Gym memberships, protein powder or additional supplements
  • Personal entertainment and expenses (However, if your family is going out for dinner or to a movie, for example, you should pay for the student.)
  • Costs associated with participation in school-sponsored activities e.g. graduation ceremonies, school dances, extra-curricular sports, school trips, etc.
  • Stamps, stationery, books, magazines, CDs, posters, etc.
  • Costs related to renewal of student visas, travel home, etc.
  • Transportation Costs (except when expected to travel with homestay family) – Note: You are expected to provide transportation within our community within reason.  You are not permitted to charge a student for this type of travel.

Concerns

What should I do if my student flagrantly disobeys the house rules?

Discuss any issues with the student directly and attempt to come to a resolution. If a problem cannot be resolved, the Homestay family should contact the Homestay Coordinator as soon as possible. The situation will be reviewed carefully and, if warranted, the student will be moved to another home or be sent home. Consuming alcohol is an example where this has happened. It is best to deal with any concerns early so that they can be dealt with before they become big problems.

I am having a problem with my student. What do I do?

If you are having difficulty adjusting to your host student, try to communicate your problems and concerns with them. Often, problems and misunderstandings can be resolved in this way. If they cannot, your homestay coordinator or counselor is always available to help you resolve your problems. If the situation with a student in your home becomes difficult, then it is important to inform us. Families and students are expected to make every effort to make the homestay a success. In the unlikely event that families and students are incompatible, and every effort has failed to improve the situation, then another homestay will be arranged. If the student is involved in a serious violation of homestay rules, then he/she may be sent home.

My student, or I, have requested that the student move. What happens now?

There may be scenarios that require a student to move to another homestay for a variety of reasons. This process can be initiated by either the student or the host family. If a student wishes to move, please do not take offense or feel that something is wrong with your home. While we do not like to make changes, we also have to respect the fact that some relationships just don’t work.   Some common reasons for moves are allergies to a pet in the home or a feeling that younger children are too noisy for the student to concentrate on studying (or perhaps a realization that the student would prefer a home with no children). In some cases, there may be problems with personalities. There could be sibling rivalry, which is affecting the tone of the house. There are many reasons why a student may have to move, and it is important that homestay families give us their full support. We realize that families sometimes depend on income, but we stress that you don’t rely on this and that you contact us if problems or issues arise. If it is considered that the student or homestay family is at risk, a student will be moved immediately.