International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) welcomes Jason Martie as a new Local Coordinator.

“I have lived in Missouri my entire life. I am a retired teacher, administrator, and coach. My background in education

drives my efforts to work with young people to find opportunities to expand their knowledge and experiences. I had a

unique opportunity to play baseball on a USA team that toured Belgium and played against the European pro teams.

This incredible experience has also driven my desire to work in this field. I have a wife of 23 years, Crystal, who teaches

elementary students and runs a yoga business. My oldest son Mickey is currently finishing his senior year and will play

football and attend Truman State University next fall. My oldest daughter, Sophie, is a junior and active in many athletics

and academic teams. My youngest daughter, Paisley, is currently a 7th grader, is very active in athletics, and is very

creative. Most of my activities include following my children's activities. In my spare time, I really love to hunt and fish,

and I am a deacon at my church. I love working with exchange students because I love learning about other cultures,

seeing students thrive, and seeing their impact on their new communities and schools.”

Jason is excited for this new opportunity to work with international high school students and the local families that host

them and feels that having exchange students in our local schools and communities increase mutual understanding and

improves relationships between countries. Jason will be working with families and schools in Macon and in the

surrounding area.

Jason is currently looking for families that would like to host for the school year of 2024. Exchange students live as a

member of the host family—not a guest or boarder. They participate in family activities, follow host family rules, and

help with chores. Students have their own medical insurance and spending money to cover all personal expenses; Host

families provide room & board and loving parental guidance to the student. As the Local Coordinator, Jason is available

to answer questions, give advice, and provide general support to students and host families throughout the experience.

For more information about hosting or working with ICES, please contact Jason Martie at jmartie@icesusa.org.

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ICES is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting a peaceful world by increasing international

awareness and understanding through cultural sharing experiences.