For two weeks in April, the halls of Cudahy High School echoed with the excitement of international friendship as students from Goethe Schule Harburg (GSH) in Hamburg, Germany, participated in an exchange through the German American Partnership Program (GAPP).
Throughout their stay, the German students were welcomed into the homes of Cudahy High School families, immersing themselves in American culture and forging lifelong connections with their American counterparts. From sharing meals to experiencing "typical" American family life, the exchange provided a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding.
As part of the exchange, the German students shadowed their American partners at school, gaining first hand insight into the American educational system. Meanwhile, Frau Nina Mitzinger and Herr Joachim Zimmer, two dedicated teachers from GSH, collaborated with teachers and enriched classroom experiences for students.
The exchange students enjoyed leisurely walks around Cudahy, with stops at Sheridan Park, the Cudahy Public Library, and the Cudahy Historical Society, to exciting group outings to iconic Wisconsin destinations, including the UW-Madison campus and the state capital in Madison.
One highlight of the program was a special visit to the UW-Madison campus, where the group gathered outside the renowned Ratskeller, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the university's famous Terrace. The students had the opportunity of being personally greeted and addressed by Cudahy's State Senator, Chris Larson, during a visit to the state capitol.
The German students were also able to attend a Brewers baseball game and enjoyed a fun-filled outing of bowling with their American hosts.
The 2024 GAPP exchange was a success, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated and reaffirming the importance of international cooperation and cultural exchange in today's interconnected world.