Public school division seeking homes for international students

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on April 4, 2026.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

During the upcoming school year the Medicine Hat Public School Division will welcome several international students on educational exchange programs to Canada and are seeking host families.

Earlier this week MHPSD announced it will host students from Spain, France, Italy, Germany and Japan in the 2026-27 school year and need families to host the students during their stay in Medicine Hat.

Students typically stay between three and five months, however some are enrolled in year-long exchange programs.

From past experiences the division says there are several benefits that come with hosting a student from another country, including a cultural exchange, meaningful relationships and a community impact that contributed to the growth of global understanding.

“Hosting an international student is one of the most meaningful things our family has ever done,” reads a quote from a past host family within the school division. “We thought we were opening our home to a student, but we ended up welcoming a new family member, creating a connection that will last a lifetime.”

Host families will also receive monthly financial compensation of $1,025 throughout the 2026-27 school year.

Families interested in hosting a student are encouraged to reach out to the school division’s homestay co-ordinators, Khirsta McDowall at 403-581-8412, or Kim Bratvold at 403-502-9670.

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