BBCC invites families to host Japanese Ag trainees
Loyal Leas, wife of BBCC President Terry Leas, visits with members of the 51st group of Japanese Agriculture Training Program trainees to arrive at the college to study English and American agriculture. After nine weeks at BBCC, they leave for host farms. Before they leave, BBCC tries to place each trainee in a local home to experience American culture.
MOSES LAKE — Big Bend Community College (BBCC) is encouraging local residents to invite trainees in the college’s Japanese Agriculture Training Program (JATP) for home visits during their nine weeks in Moses Lake.
The JATP trainees arrived at Big Bend for the 51st consecutive year March 25. The trainees will be at BBCC for nine weeks before departing for host farms in the U.S. During their time at Big Bend, they will study English and American agriculture.
The nine weeks at Big Bend serve as the start to the 19-month stay in the U.S. for the JATP trainees.
The college is encouraging local people to invite trainees into their homes to help the students soak in American culture and experiences. Most of the trainees are getting their first exposure to American culture, according to a release from the college.
“We try to make sure every trainee gets to experience life in a local home, from an American perspective,” Shelly Ottem, JATP English instructor, said.
“They are always thrilled to meet an American family, see an American home and practice their English.”
In the past, local families have taken trainees for various recreational outings like sightseeing, bowling and various outdoor activities, according to a release from the college. Even a lunch or dinner inside a local home with a local family is a valuable and memorable experience for trainees, according to the college.
Host families provide transportation to and from the residence halls at Big Bend. To make arrangements to host JATP trainees, contact Stephanie Jacobs at 509-793-2297.
—Staff report