Since 1956, students across the country have had an opportunity to explore new cultures through the Sister Cities International program. Longmont joined in 1991 by adopting Chino, Japan as its first sister city. In 1998 Cuidad Guzman in Mexico became its second sister city followed by the Northern Arapaho, Wind River Reservation in Wyoming in 2019. For years, Longmont students have become ambassadors to these cities on behalf of Longmont and now applications are open for the next group of chaperones and ambassadors.
Students enrolled in grades eight through eleven within the boundaries of the St. Vrain Valley School district are invited to apply to become ambassadors. Students can attend public, private, charter or homeschools. Applications are now open.
Students can apply to go to any of Longmont’s three sister cities. The trips to Mexico and Japan include a 10 day stay while the Wind River Reservation is between 4-6 days over the summer.
After students are selected they attend an orientation session and participate in fundraisers for the trips which can cost $800 to $2,400 depending on airfare. In total, students can expect to spend 2-4 hours a month during the school year dedicated to working with Longmont Sister Cities prior to the trip. Applications are due by Nov. 15.
Groups are limited to no more than eight students and two chaperones.The trips are expected to take place at an undetermined date in late June to early August.
Adult chaperone applications are also open. Adults need to also reside or work within SVVSD boundaries. They are not required to speak the language of the city they wish to visit. Chaperones must be at least 21 years old and pass a background check. Applications are due by Oct. 15. Chaperones can receive reimbursement for travel expenses if they complete the pre- and post-trip activities and the summer exchange.
