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Questions and Answers
How do I participate in future
exchanges?
When is the best time to send the formal request
letter?
Why should we participate in the program?
Who determines the match in the Sister School
District Model?
What is the commitment by California School
Districts?
Where can I obtain additional information?
Where can contributions be sent?
How do I participate in future exchanges?
Interested school districts should send a formal letter to CIRF requesting participation in the program. The school district should determine whether to host or send students the first year, and designate a coordinator who can work in cooperation with CIRF officials in setting up the proper infrastructure needed to establish the program.
When is the best time to send the formal request letter?
The best time to send the formal request letter is in the spring, one year before the expected exchange date. California school districts and Japanese Prefectrual governments typically complete the next year's fiscal budget before the end of summer, allowing program costs to be factored in to both District and Prefectural operational costs.
Why should we participate in the program ?
The program helps districts prepare their participants for the realities of a globalized society. Students are introduced to foreign languages and cultures, as well as the basics of the global economy, politics, and social infrastructure. Students will witness firsthand the importance and influence that the Pacific Basin has on global affairs. Participants are able to compliment their studies by experiencing the differences of non-Western educational methods and introduces international relations type classes in district curriculum. This allows a district to be on the forefront of global education in California.
Who determines the match in the Sister School District Model?
New school districts are matched to Prefectures in Japan based upon a variety of criteria including expressed desire to participate in the program, prior or ongoing relationships with a California city or region, and the advice and consultation of the Japanese Consulate of San Francisco.
What is the commitment by California School Districts?
The program consists of a two year commitment by both districts and Prefectures in Japan. We require that district and Prefectures host and send students in alternate years to ensure a meaningful exchange. While there is some financial assistance to districts for student scholarships, there are certain financial responsibilities placed upon the District.
Where can I obtain additional information?
Additional information can be obtained by contacting Ms. Ezilda Samoville at (916) 651-1515 or via e-mail at ezilda.samoville@sen.ca.gov.
Where can contributions be sent?
Contributions should be sent to:
California International Relations Foundation
Attn: Ms. Ezilda Samoville, Executive Director
1020 N Street, Suite 516
Sacramento, CA 95814
Employer Identification Number 68-0246325
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