Thornton High School hosts international students

To further promote international mindedness and intercultural awareness, Thornton High School’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Spanish Language Program hosted a group of 22 students visiting the United States from five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, Panamá, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Guatemala. The students were part of the World Denver Youth Ambassadors program, organized through the US Department of State. Students partnered with THS student ambassadors and spent the day touring the school, having lunch in the Royal Gorge (the school cafeteria,) visiting classes and sharing stories and ideas. The World Denver Youth Ambassadors were amazed at the inclusive nature of THS and in awe of the opportunities our students have to explore the arts! The Youth Ambassadors shared pieces of their culture with us when they presented dance, song, poetry and art from their respective countries. The THS IB Spanish Language A program supports native or heritage Spanish speakers to continue to develop their fluency in speaking, listening, reading and writing. The Denver World Ambassadors and sponsors were able to engage with students and staff in Spanish throughout their visit. Kathleen Fuller, IB Program Coordinator, organized the visit through the International Baccalaureate Association of Rocky Mountain Schools.

This story exemplifies our ELEVATE Focus Area: Diverse Learning. Sharing stories of how students receive engaging learning experiences and the focused-attention they need through appropriate student-to-staff ratios and varied programming.