Timberlane High School German Exchange

Hi, my name is Steven Rugoletti. I'm a high school teacher and the group leader for the Timberlane German foreign exchange program (GAPP). Over a year ago, 18 students from Timberlane High School, in Plaistow, NH, committed to an exchange program with a school in eastern Germany. Last fall, they hosted these German high school students in their homes and assisted them in touring our area. Now, it's our turn.

Unfortunately, the trip is in jeopardy. The projected cost was set 18 months ago. Since then, prices have ballooned beyond all the original estimates. Even having scaled back the trip, the exchange is now going to cost almost $500 more per person than originally expected. Airfare alone rose by $500 past the original estimate. Students are considering dropping out, which places even more burden on the remaining students, and that could be too much to bear, and the trip could be canceled.

This exchange is far more than sightseeing. It's a cultural exchange where students get to stay with and experience life in a German home. It builds friendships that last a lifetime, with experiences like visiting Auschwitz it builds empathy and compassion, and overall, it gives students who don't often venture further than New England, a global perspective, making them better citizens.

If you have the means, would you consider donating a small amount to help make this lifetime trip happen for these 18 Timberlane High School students? Thank you for your consideration.