The Mercer Island Sister City Association is currently accepting applications from Mercer Island High School students, in grades 9 through 11, who are interested in participating in a 10-day exchange student program in Thonon-les-Bains, France, in April 2019. Thonon-les-Bains is Mercer Island’s “Sister City,” a relationship founded in 2000.

Students will have the opportunity to explore Thonon-les-Bains, a lakeside city with a similar population size to Mercer Island, which also shares a focus on education. Students will learn about Thon-les-Bains’ history and culture; experience everyday life in Thonon; and visit local Thonon-area attractions.
For more information, please refer the following materials: Travel to France! Spring 2019 flyer | Program Itinerary | Program Application | Mercer Island Sister City Association website

Please note that although interest in France and/or French is encouraged, knowledge of the French language is not required. Applications are due on November 30th. Questions? Refer to the program application for the contact information of the program leads.

About the organization from the the Mercer Island Sister City Association website:
The Mercer Island Sister City Association is a nonprofit, community-based organization promoting educational, cultural, and other exchanges between the citizens of Thonon-les-Bains, France, and Mercer Island, Washington. The Mercer Island–Thonon-les-Bains relationship was founded in 2000 and is an association composed of individuals and organizations interested in promoting close ties between both cities. Thonon-les-Bains and Mercer Island are both lakeside cities located close to major metropolitan areas. Both have relatively similarly sized populations with a focus on education. Both enjoy a multitude of parks, festivals, and gardens. Both are proud of their pedestrian-oriented town centers, where residents can dine, shop, and relax. Both enjoy the benefits of being close to a major city with national and international events while maintaining a distinct, small-town feel. These two cities combine to form a perfect match with hopes of a long-lasting relationship and partnership.