Every year for the past six years, PV has hosted an Italian exchange program. As part of this program, 24 Italian students will be arriving at PV this Friday.

The program was set up by Mrs. Barbara Borghi, an Italian teacher here at PV who grew up in Italy. She began the program years ago when a friend presented her with the opportunity.  She and her students have planned extensively for the ten days that the exchange students will be here.

The Italians are from Treviso, Italy, a small town near Venice. During their ten day visit, the Italians will experience American culture.

“My girl really wants to try a real American Chicken Wing,” said Olivia Housley, a senior and vice president of the Italian National Honors Society.

The Honors Italian 4 class has planned a four day tour of New York City for the visiting class.

“They’re gonna see the biggest monuments,” said Janine Warner, treasurer of the INHS, “The Empire State Building. Central Park.”

“All the iconic sights,” Borghi said. “Everything that says ‘America’ and ‘New York.’”

They will be also be attending classes at PV with the host students.

“They get to experience the American education system,” said Kasane Tonegawa, president of the INHS.

On Monday, December 7, the Italian class will be hosting an assembly during seventh period. Students who attend will hear a rendition of both the American and Italian National Anthems, learn more about the exchange program, and get insight into the lives of Italian teenagers. PV students will also be given the chance to ask the Italian students questions.

“Language translation doesn’t necessarily translate into culture,” Borghi said. She explained that the program is meant to educate students on Italian life, rather than keeping language contained to a classroom.