When the Rand family learned that Enochs High School and other local schools were bringing back the chance to host students from Japan after COVID, they couldn’t wait to be involved again. Hosting has become a cherished tradition for the Rands, who have welcomed exchange students before.
“The whole experience is always life-changing for all,” shared Stephanie Rand.
The journey from Kyoto to Modesto is about 5,427 miles, a distance traveled by about 250 students annually to visit various schools across Stanislaus County, including three MCS high schools: Beyer, Enochs, and Gregori. These students from Kyoto University of Advanced Science Senior and Junior High School (KUAS) spend nearly a week with host families through the KUAS Student Program, an exchange program that has been running for more than 30 years. During their brief stay, Japanese students immerse themselves in Central Valley life, exploring the area’s rich agricultural industry and learning about the science behind it.
For the Rand family, welcoming students Toma and Kazuto brought back fond memories. Stephanie Rand, a Johansen alumna, remembers hosting her first exchange students back in high school when staying in touch was more challenging.
“I still remember those boys saying ‘Japanese joke’ whenever they made a silly comment,” she said. “It became a saying in our family, and we kept saying it for over 25 years! Hearing one of our current students say the same thing was such a funny surprise.”
The connections formed during this exchange run deep. Gregori High Principal Phillip Jaramillo, who has also hosted students, reflected on the lasting bonds that form despite the visit’s short duration.
“When they leave, there are always tears and hugs,” Jaramillo said. “These are lifelong connections. My own daughter, who has since graduated, keeps in touch with one of our exchange students from years ago.”
Enochs High School has participated in the exchange program for 19 years. Principal Justin Woodbridge is proud of the program’s impact on both the school and the community.
“Hosting our Kyoto students, administrators, and teachers enriches all our lives. It shows the importance of learning from others, developing lasting relationships, and being gracious hosts,” Woodbridge said.
The exchange experience was especially meaningful to the Rand family this year.
“Our youngest learned to use chopsticks and now tries to use them all the time,” Rand said. “And I hoped my 11th grader would enjoy hosting Toma and Kazuto. When they left, she was in tears. She loved showing them Enochs High School, taking them to an American football game, and even bringing them to a high school dance, something they don’t have back in Japan. They’ve now formed a lifelong friendship.”
Before the students departed, the Rands connected with Toma and Kazuto’s families to share their admiration for the boys and express their hope of visiting Japan someday.
“Our students have reached out since being home and told us thank you again for hosting them and that they had an incredible trip. We can’t wait to do this again next year,” Rand said.
Modesto City Schools looks forward to welcoming students from KUAS again next fall! Families interested in hosting can reach out to a participating high school as the date approaches in the 2025-2026 school year.
Arigatô, KUAS!