Reception and Rheinfall

Dr. Inglin giving a tour

After a weekend spent with our new foreign families and friends, it was good to be back together as a group.  Students arrived at school this morning chatting about the various plans that had transpired, such as trips to France, Germany, the Alps, and more, and it was great to hear an exchange of so many experiences.

Ms. Herzog, Minister of Finance

This morning was an important morning for our group.  We headed over to Basel's state house/town hall, Rathaus.  we met up with another exchange group from Natick, MA.  Natick has an exchange program similar to ours, and the city of Basel was holding a celebration in our honor.  The Massachusetts state flag flew outside the Rathaus, and we were given a personal tour of the building by none other than the esteemed, Dr. Inglin, who is also a politician here.

After the tour, there was a ceremony where speakers talked about the importance of international exchange, and what these programs mean for our students.  Among the esteemed speakers was the head of the Ministry of Finance, Ms. Herzog, who also happens to be the mother of Fabian Herzog, who is hosting Austin.  There was also a diplomat from the U.S. Embassy in Bern, who gave a great speech about what these programs mean for America.  Dr. Maggi spoke about the importance of student curiosity and how students continue to inspire her to this day.  We also had two of our own students speak, as Matt and Nicole did a great job talking about their experiences thus far.  After the ceremony there was a reception where students were able to chat and mingle.  We did not stay too long, for we had other plans that included enjoying the beautiful day along the Rhine.

Matt and Nicole making RMHS proud

We headed along  the German border and took an hour's train ride to Schaffhausen, home to the famous Rheinfall, the largest fresh water waterfall in Europe.  These majestic falls were the perfect backdrop for our lunch.  Students enjoyed lying out in the sunshine and soaking in the the rays and the mist.  We then took a short boat ride to a rock directly in front of the rapids and climbed up for some breathtaking photos.

Group at the Rheinfall

Rheinfall

Rheinfall

Leto, Marykate, and Hannah enjoying the view

Emily is "King of the World"

After a long day, students were tired, but excited to see some of the beauty that Switzerland has to offer.  That beauty will continue tomorrow, as we head south to Lucerne.