Libertyville's Highland Middle School hosts 10 Chinese exchange students

Sledding, American history and making friends have been on the agenda for a group of Chinese exchange students since they arrived at Highland Middle School in Libertyville this week.

The 10 Chinese students are part of a special international exchange program from an elite middle school in Wuzi, China. The girls will attend seventh grade classes at Highland every school day through Feb. 27. The program was set up with the Culture Exchange Academy in Wheeling.

"I am excited for our students because I think it provides them an opportunity culturally to grow and experience other cultures," Highland Principal Jon Hallmark said. "I am extremely excited for the girls from China because I know they are here to learn about the U.S. education system, but I think they that they will end up making friendships that they will take back with them to China."

The exchange students are living with host families of Highland students. After they arrived Monday, the Highland students and their Chinese counterparts went sledding at the Adler Park sled hill.

"I like the school's classes because they are very interesting. Here, it is very relaxed," Chinese student Zhi Ling said as she studied in math class. "I have a lot of friends here in two days. They are very kind."

As a special treat, the Chinese exchange students will be at Highland on Feb. 19, the beginning of the Chinese New Year. They will share their celebration customs with Highland students.

The plan is for the exchange students to be involved in sightseeing tours around Chicago, and to tour other high schools and universities.