More families are needed to host

foreign high school students who will be arriving in the country

soon for academic semester homestay programs.

Placement deadlines for these students

are fast approaching, according to representatives of Pacific

Intercultural Exchange, a non-profit educational organization.

The students are between the ages of 15

and 18, speak English, have their own spending money and carry

accident and health insurance. Their stay ranges in length from one

semester to a full academic year.

Area representatives of the

organization match students with host families by finding common

interests and lifestyles through an informal in-home meeting.

Prospective host families are able to review student applications

and select a match. P.I.E. can fit a student into just about any

situation, whether it is a single parent, a childless couple, a

retired couple or a large family.

Families interested in learning more

about student exchange or arranging for a meeting with a community

representative may call P.I.E., toll-free, at 1-866-546-1402. The

agency also has travel/study program opportunities available for

American high school students, as well as possibilities for

community volunteers to assist and work with area host families,

students and schools.