Exchange student and relocation for work?

Question

Hi. My husband and I will be hosting an echange student next year (in the US). We have been planning this for almost 6 months and have formed a bond with the student through email, letters and the phone.

My husband just learned that his employer is doing some company restructuring and relocation to another city may be a small possibility (30%ish?) for him in the coming year. This came as a big surprise to us.

Is it possible to move an exchange student should we need to, and more importantly, is it fair to the kid?

A move would cause no financial type hardships, and we would make every effort to have it go smoothly. I would feel very sad to ask for the girl to be re-placed with another family, but obviously need to do what is best for her.

Thanks so much for any advice you may have for us before I contact her program about this.

Answer 1

First, how far through the school year would this move take place? If it's toward the end, the answer might be that you just stay and let her finish out her year.

It is possible to move with an exchange kid, but you need to make sure that the receiving school can take her. Many schools have limits on the number of students. That might be a first phone call for you to make! If the receiving school wouldn't take her, then you really have no alternative.

I know it would be sad for you to give her up (I've hosted 13!) but it would be better to do it now, before you've become really bonded. You can probably still stay in her life as a friend while you are in your city.