MS SC568

Recognizes the cultural exchange program established by French teacher Beth Pierce at Columbia High School with students and teachers from Etampes, France, initiated in 2005 through an internet pen pal connection.

Documents French students' visit to Columbia, Mississippi in April 2007 where 21 students stayed with host families and toured New Orleans, Jackson, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Notes Columbia High School students' reciprocal visit to Etampes, France in April 2008 where 25 students and 5 parents attended Geoffroy St. Hilaire High School and toured historic sites including Normandy beaches and Versailles Palace.

Acknowledges the program's success in doubling French language enrollment at Columbia High School and increasing university-level French study among participants, with Columbia and Etampes pursuing official Sister Cities status.

Directs presentation of the resolution to Ms. Beth Pierce, Columbia High School student representatives, the Columbia Municipal School District Superintendent, State Board of Education, and Mississippi Development Authority.