West OttawaGlobal Initiatives
Aligned with our vision of preparing all students to be College, Career, and Life Ready, West Ottawa Public Schools is committed to offering unique global learning experiences. Through Global Initiatives, students have the opportunity to build meaningful connections with peers from around the world, fostering cultural understanding and collaboration.
Sister School Exchanges
The Sister School Exchange Program is a key component of West Ottawa Public Schools’ broader Global Initiatives, designed to provide students with meaningful international learning experiences. Serving as a capstone to global education opportunities, the program is currently offered at the high school level. Students have the unique chance to host a peer from one of our sister schools and, in turn, travel abroad to live and learn alongside their international correspondent for approximately one to two weeks. This reciprocal exchange fosters cultural understanding, personal growth, and lifelong connections.
Sister School Exchange Cycles
Detailed Sister School Exchange Cycles
Interested students must attend exchange specific informational meetings with a parent or guardian. Applications will be available at the conclusion of each meeting.
Global Scholars and STEM Diploma Endorsements
Are you interested in the Global Scholars or STEM endorsements?
Explore the details in this link to learn how you can showcase your learning and experiences. For guidance or to apply, connect with your WOHS counselor!
Description and Vision (Global Scholars):
At West Ottawa Public Schools, we recognize and celebrate the diverse experiences, perspectives, and merits of our students beyond academic achievement. We believe that embracing diversity in thinking and cultural backgrounds prepares our graduates to be not only college, career, and life ready, but also future global leaders in community engagement, inclusion, and innovation.
Through the Global Scholars Diploma Endorsement Pathway, students have the opportunity to demonstrate their global and cultural competency, as well as engage in learning and service requirements that enhance their personal and professional growth. Students who successfully complete this pathway will earn an endorsement on their diploma, signifying their preparedness to thrive in an interconnected world. By fostering skills such as identity development, intercultural communication, and adaptability, we equip students to lead with empathy, perspective, and a commitment to positive change in diverse global contexts.
Program Requirements (Global Scholars):
To earn the Global Scholars Diploma Endorsement, students must fulfill all Michigan Merit Curriculum and West Ottawa High School graduation requirements.
In addition, students must earn a minimum of nine (9) points, with experiences from each of the following three Groups:
- Group 1: Academics – Students must earn at least four (4) points in this category through coursework, assessments, and other academic experiences.
- Group 2: Global and Cultural Competency – Students must complete at least one (1) point by participating in activities that enhance their understanding of global and cultural perspectives.
- Group 3: Service and Volunteer Experience – Students must complete at least one (1) point by engaging in meaningful service or volunteer work within the community.
Capstone: In their senior year, students must submit a portfolio that includes relevant artifacts and a reflection essay demonstrating their cultural competency and globally-minded perspective across all core tenets of the Global Scholars Pathway. Applications for the capstone must be submitted during the fall semester of the senior year.
Student Ambassador Program
Student Ambassador Program
The Student Ambassador Program provides opportunities for students to demonstrate leadership, foster community, and support peers. Ambassadors help new students feel welcome by leading building tours, having conversations over lunch, and answering questions to ease the transition. Some ambassadors are also chosen to serve as Exchange Student Mentors, building lasting connections with full-year exchange students and sharing cultures, traditions, passions, and interests.
Participation in the Student Ambassador Program and serving as an Exchange Student Mentor may also count toward STEM or Global Scholars Diploma Endorsements, allowing students to earn recognition for leadership and cultural engagement.
Student Ambassadors are selected by School Counselors. Current and rising high school students are invited to apply each May for the following school year.
