International Studies

International Studies & Exchange is an independent study course for students in 9th through 12th grade. In this course, you'll gain an international perspective and establish cross-cultural, interpersonal skills that will contribute to your success in today's global world. You'll develop an awareness of cultural differences, understand world views and their role in intercultural competence, improve your communication skills, and learn how to behave effectively in intercultural situations.

There are three components to the program:

Build a relationship through weekly communication. Each student establishes a relationship with a student "correspondent" from either Costa Rica, Germany, India, Russia, Serbia, South Africa, Spain or South Korea. You'll communicate with your correspondent one to three times a week using a combination of Skype, email and/or Facebook.
Complete assignments with your correspondent. There are eight major topics addressed in a series of assignments to be completed for each month of the academic year. Assignments can include essays, research projects, online discussion boards, and multimedia projects and presentations. You'll be required to compare cultures, school systems, economies, challenges facing each country and personal family history.
Meet with your Minnetonka teacher and classmates. Twice a month, you'll attend class during zero hour to discuss assignments and reflect on your learning.

Travel abroad and hosting

Although not required for participation* in International Studies, you will have the opportunity to travel abroad and/or host a foreign student. Students who travel to their correspondent’s country attend school, work on service projects and immerse themselves in the new culture.

*Note: Minnetonka students in the German program are expected to host in February–March and are strongly encouraged to travel to Hamburg mid- to late June.

Independent study, grading and course credit

If you choose an independent study course such as International Studies, you'll be required to complete most coursework outside the regular school day. Upon successfully completion of all requirements, you will receive a semester grade and credit, which will be acknowledged on your school transcript. This credit is above and beyond what is required for graduation.

Registering for International Studies

Students interested in participating in International Studies need to fill out the following application.

Apply Now

Purpose of International Studies

In the Minnetonka School District, we are focused on developing 21st century learning skills in our students that will allow them to thrive in a global environment. This course is key in making that goal a reality as it gives students the experience of meeting and working with international students on academically rigorous assignments that require students to master communication technology, international social interaction and self-motivated time management skills.

This program is an opportunity for students to expand their cultural understanding, reflect upon their own cultural and national heritage and develop skills in working with overseas students on specific academic assignments. Our objective for each student enrolled in the course is that they:

Develop self-motivated qualities of innovation, independence and resourcefulness
Gain an informed understanding of cultures and people
Cultivate a global perspective and sense of responsibility as a citizen of the world
Experience the challenges and benefits of working together with students from other nations
Establish credentials as students committed to International Studies when applying to colleges

Our partner schools

Costa Rica
Taller Pedagógico Montebello

Germany
Wichern Schule, Hamburg

India
Singapore International School of Mumbai

Russia
Petrovsky Palace, Petrozavodsk

Serbia
School 9, Belgrade

South Africa
Rondebosch Boys School
Rustenburg Girls High School

South Korea
Cheongshim International Academy

Spain
Colegio San Ignacio
Obispoperello High School, Madrid

Videos

What our students say

"I hope to take away a different perspective of China. I think America has a lot of ideas that may not be 100 percent correct ... through talking with him I'm able to look past my fears of China. So it's been a very enriching experience." Jake paired with Chinese partner – 10th grade, Minnetonka

“Being paired with Marissa was like being paired with my best friend. I got to learn about another culture so similar, yet so different from mine.” Marisa paired with Dutch partner - 11th grade, Minnetonka

“I'm really missing the time I spend with you. I now spend more time on the Study Program as we know each other better... I also corresponding with some other students I made friends with at your school.” Chen Yejia from China

“The 21st century can be considered a very global world. By learning through this program, we had the opportunity to learn about a country, and gain a global understanding of that country; which will overall help us in a global community.” Caleb paired with Russian partner – 12th grader, Minnetonka

“I’ve never built a friendship with a textbook, but when you actually email someone and get to know them as a person, it makes it more memorable.” Marisa paired with Dutch partner – 11th grade, Minnetonka

“The earth has become a global village, so it is necessary to know what other people do in different countries.” Pan Leying from China

Minnetonka teachers in the program

Lisa Lewis, South Africa
Contact: Lisa.Lewis@minnetonkaschools.org

Grant Hendrickson, Germany, Russia and Serbia
Contact: Grant.Hendrickson@minnetonkaschools.org

Grant has taught at Minnetonka since 2006. He is the advisor for Russia and Serbia in the International Studies Program. In the Social Studies department he teaches World History and IB European History. Grant coordinates the Minnetonka High School Russian Club and is an assistant coach with the Minnetonka Boys Rugby Club. He previously taught at a charter school in St. Paul and spent three years teaching English in Russia at both the high school and colligate level. Grant completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota Duluth and has a master’s degree in education from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Jamie Fitzpatrick, Costa Rica
Contact: jamie.fitzpatrick@minnetonkaschools.org

Jamie has taught at Minnetonka High School since 2017. She is the advisor for Spain in the International Studies program. In the World Language department, she teaches a variety of Spanish classes, including an IB Spanish course and a Spanish immersion course. Jamie completed her undergraduate degree for Spanish teaching at Winona State University and she also spent a semester abroad studying at the Universidad Latina in Costa Rica.

Erik Kottom, South Korea
Contact: erik.kottom@minnetonkaschools.org

Erik has been a teacher at Minnetonka High School since 2015. He is the advisor for South Korea in the International Studies program. Erik teaches Chinese Immersion Human Geography and Civics as well as AP World History in the social studies department. Erik is also an extended essay writing advisor for International Baccalaureate students. He previously taught English at Southwest University in Chongqing, China at the high school and collegiate levels. Erik completed his undergraduate degree from Saint John’s University. Erik has a master’s degree in Educational Technology from Concordia Saint Paul, and he is currently completing his EdS degree in Educational Leadership from Minnesota State University Mankato.

Renee Morabito, India
Contact: renee.morabito@minnetonkaschools.org

Renee has been at Minnetonka since 2006 when she was hired to create and develop the Compass Program at the high school. She has served as the Compass Program Coordinator since 2006 and took over the role as the instructor for the India International Studies Program in 2021. Prior to coming to Minnetonka, she taught US History, World Cultures and Psychology at the Carver Scott Co-Op in Chaska for 5 years, 2 years at Metro West Alternative High School in Iowa and a year at Urbana High School in Illinois. Renee also taught in the Adult Basic Education program in Chaska helping adults earn their GED's or finish up classes to earn their high school diploma. Renee earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa in 1998 and her Master's degree in Professional Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy in 2002 from Argosy University.

Juan Pablo Salcedo: Spain
Contact: JuanPablo.Salcedo@minnetonkaschools.org

Contact

Jeffrey Erickson
Principal
jeffrey.erickson@minnetonkaschools.org

Register for International Studies

Express your interest by registering in the International Studies Program and prior to spring break an email will be sent to you with the application link.
Complete the application process after spring break.
Await acceptance and status of first choice in May (students may be asked to select a second choice program). Correspondents will be assigned at different times depending on the country assigned.