Press Release

Stamford, Conn.- March 21, 2019 – High schools across the country are encouraged to apply for the Tony Cook Memorial Grant, administered by Academic Year in America (AYA), one of the largest and most respected high school foreign exchange student programs in the United States.

Each year, Tony Cook Memorial Grants of $1,000 are awarded to 10 schools in the U.S. that illustrate a commitment to international exchange by hosting foreign students and developing projects, programs and/or events that teach students about the global economy.

To qualify for a Tony Cook Memorial Grant, an interested school must submit an application online or via email outlining the project that will further promote international education in your school community. Applications are available at www.academicyear.org/tonycook2019 and must be received no later than April 1, 2019.

Past successful project ideas have included:

• Purchasing a computer program that enables American students to develop school-based pen pal relationships with international students
• Creating a community-wide theater celebration and reception between a high school in the U.S. and Japan
• Funding the costs for students to attend a World Languages Day conference
• Establishing a scholarship for a qualified student to participate on a study abroad program

"These schools recognize the importance of children learning about the world’s cultures and customs,” said Melanie French, Executive Director of AYA. “Additionally, schools that host exchange students play a direct role in promoting the values of America. School administrators and teachers recognize that the lessons these exchange students learn while attending American high schools help shape their lasting views of our country."

AYA’s high school exchange students are ages 15 – 18 and arrive with full medical insurance, spending money and the hopes of experiencing life in America with the support of a caring host family. The students stay with their hosts for either five or 10 months and attend a local high school.AYA’s high school exchange students are ages 15 – 18 and arrive with full medical insurance, spending money and the hopes of experiencing life in America with the support of a caring host family. The students stay with their hosts for either five or 10 months and attend a local high school.

In 2019, area families have the opportunity to learn about the the world outside of the United States by hosting an AYA student for a mutually rewarding exchange. AYA programs give highly qualified high school students the opportunity to learn about American culture while attending school and living with volunteer host families.

TTo learn more about the program, contact AYA at 800-399-5417 or visit www.academicyear.org.

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As a leader in cultural exchange, AIFS sends more than 5,000 students abroad each year. Since its founding in 1964, AIFS has been committed to providing students with the safest, most enjoyable and highest quality educational programs. AIFS celebrates a proud history of providing opportunities to the international education community. Over 1.5 million people from more than 500 colleges and universities have participated in AIFS programs.