Lake George VISTA Program
The VISTA program at Lake George Jr.-Sr. High School offers international students aged 15-18 the opportunity to experience American education while living with local host families in the Lake George community. Lake George Junior-Senior High School is recognized by the NYS Education Department as one of “New York State’s highest achievement reward schools”. The institution is regarded as one of the leaders in academics, technology, and athletics in New York State, offering a strong and diverse curriculum. The high school offers outstanding Advanced Placement courses, Dual-Enrollment, and Early College programs, as well as Career and Technical Education pathways. This program is open to F1 Visa holders with strong English language skills, the program welcomes students who successfully complete the application process.
What can I expect as a VISTA student?
The Lake George VISTA program offers international students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in American culture while pursuing academic excellence. For a period of five or ten months, VISTA students live with local host families and attend a personalized course schedule at Lake George Jr.-Sr. High School. Students can challenge themselves with rigorous academic programs, explore their passions through vibrant arts and athletics offerings, and participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities. Host families warmly welcome students into their homes, sharing meals, outings, and family traditions to create a truly authentic American experience.
Contact Information
Emily Cooper
Email Emily Cooper
VISTA Coordinator
Jennifer Cornell
Email Jennifer Cornell
VISTA Coordinator
Why should I apply to attend school in Lake George?
Lake George Central School District ranks among the top school districts in the region based on academics. In the 2023-24 school year, Lake George High School was ranked #2 in regional high school academics. At the high school level, it provides students with access to:
- Meticulous academic programming, including a diverse curriculum which prepares all students for the standards of New York State. We presently offer six Advanced Placement courses, a work co-op program (CEIP), and 6 college credit courses held on our campus which can earn the student 12+ college credits before they graduate, as well as, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Career and College Academy from SUNY Adirondack.
- A Macbook for in-school and at-home use during the school year.
- Access to national and world qualifying teams, such as, the Future Business Leaders of America, VEX Robotics, and Quiz Bowl.
- Over 35 varsity, junior varsity and freshman sports teams, including sectional, regional and state champions.
- Musical and performing arts activities.
- More than 50 extracurricular clubs and activities.
- Beautiful views of Lake George situated within Lake George Village with easy access to dining, shopping, outdoor recreation, and more!
Lake George Central School District enrolls around 600 students. In the last two years 100 percent of graduates earned a Regents diploma or better and 68 percent earned an Advanced Regents diploma or better, many with specific endorsements such as honors, CDOS, Seal of Biliteracy, and Civic Readiness. More than 90 percent planned to attend a two- or four-year college or other post-secondary training after graduation.
How do I apply?
For general information on the program and information on how to apply please reach out to our International Coordinators Emily Cooper and Jen Cornell.
Host a VISTA Student:
Join our VISTA program by becoming a host family to an international student! International students are academically focused and enthusiastic about joining extracurricular activities. They are also interested in becoming a part of your family; experiencing the culture, and family activities, as well as sharing responsibilities.
As a host family, you will:
- Share your love of the Adirondack Region with an international student.
- Learn first-hand about another culture and language.
- Provide a student with a room, some meals, occasional transportation to events and lots of love and support.
- Have some compensation provided to you.