Aviano Middle High School Hosts Italian Students Through Cultural Exchange Program
AVIANO, Italy — Aviano Middle High School welcomed students from the Scuola Media Italo Svevo of Fontanafredda on Dec. 5, 2025, as part of the long-running Gemellaggi cultural exchange program. Revived last year following a pandemic hiatus, the nearly 50-year tradition connects American and Italian students to build friendships, practice language skills, and strengthen ties with the local Italian community.
Led by Italian teacher Kristin Fisher Brunetti, the program pairs Aviano students studying Italian with their Italian peers throughout the school year. Students exchange letters and messages in advance, allowing them to build connections before meeting in person. This preparation helps students develop communication skills and cultural understanding ahead of the exchange experience.
During this year’s visit, Italian seventh- and eighth-grade students toured the campus, joined Aviano students in classrooms, and experienced a typical school day. The visit concluded with a shared lunch in the school cafeteria, providing additional time for informal conversation and connection. Students expressed enthusiasm about the experience, reflecting the welcoming atmosphere created by staff and students across the campus.
Brunetti expressed appreciation to faculty, staff, students, and families for supporting the exchange, noting that the program offers more than a single visit. It provides students with real-world opportunities to apply language skills, gain firsthand exposure to another culture, and form lasting relationships. As an Aviano alumna who participated in the exchange as a student, Brunetti said it is especially meaningful to continue the tradition and strengthen ties with the surrounding Italian community. A return visit to the Italian school is planned for March 2026.
