Last year, Rye Country Day launched three Language Exchange Programs in Spain, France, and China, allowing Upper School students to deepen their language skills and gain a more robust understanding of foreign practices and cultures.

Last spring, 16 RCDS students traveled to Aix-en-Provence for two memorable weeks of international learning. This fall, their French counterparts from La Nativité visited RCDS completing the exchange and further strengthening the global connections formed.

Upon arrival, our visitors were welcomed by their RCDS host families and quickly immersed in daily school life. During their stay, they attended a wide range of Upper School classes, participated in Morning Meeting and community events, and engaged in extracurricular activities alongside their American peers. They also explored New York City, visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, strolling through Central Park and along Fifth Avenue, discovering Midtown and Rockefeller Center, and spending time in Greenwich Village and SoHo. Equally meaningful were the moments shared with host families, who introduced them to American traditions and everyday routines, helping form genuine connections during their stay.

Our French guests left inspired by their time at RCDS and by the friendships formed along the way. RCDS students and families were gracious hosts who represented RCDS excellence and community wonderfully to our guests.

Heartfelt thanks to our host students and families and to our French guests. 

Hosting students from La Nativité brought our language classrooms to life in the best possible way,” said RCDS Modern Languages Department Chair Baptiste Bataille. “Watching our students communicate authentically, share their culture, and form strong bonds affirmed just how transformative exchange programs can be. These experiences expand students’ linguistic abilities and help them develop as thoughtful, globally minded young adults. I couldn’t be prouder of our students and the community that supported this journey!