The states of Wisconsin and Hessen (Germany) signed a partnership agreement in 1976 and have cooperated in many areas in commerce, research, colleges, universities, and K-12 education programs.

The Department of Public Instruction and the Hessisches Kultusministerium (Hessen Department of Education) began a sister school program and a teacher seminar in 1990 to strengthen school partnerships and international teacher professional development. A student exchange program between both states was added in the year 2000.

Sister Schools

If you are interested in connecting with a sister school in Hessen, Germany, please fill out the Sister School Inventory and send it to Gerhard Fischer as an e-mail attachment (preferred) or by regular mail.

Hessen-Wisconsin International Teacher Seminar

Plans for continuing joint teacher professional development with the state of Hessen are currently under consideration.

Student Exchange Program

Students from Hessen and Wisconsin can apply for participation in the annual student exchange program. Selected students from Hessen and Wisconsin are partnered for one school year with students from Germany spending the first semester at a Wisconsin high school and Wisconsin students spending three months of the second semester at a school in Hessen. Read the program description and program rules for more information. Applications are usually considered between November and February each year.

The U.S. Department of State has implemented a toll free number (1-866-283-9090) for host families, exchange students, and the public to report circumstances impacting the students' health, safety, and well being during their exchange visitor programs. The Department can also be contacted by clicking here.

Contact Connie Haas at (608) 267-9267 for technical assistance. For all other questions or comments, contact Gerhard Fischer at (608) 267-9265.

Last updated on 11/17/2009 2:52:39 PM