Calvary Christian Academy CCA International Student Homestay

Isaiah's Story, Homestay Family

“I’ve only ever known being the older brother—I never could have imagined what it would be like to have an older brother or sibling in my own life. Now that our family has Steve, Gracie and I both have an older brother to play games with and experience another culture and way of life through. We get to watch Steve go fishing with our dad, cooking with our mom, and learning about Jesus and more of who he is in Him while he lives in our home and goes to CCA. Plus, it’s been fun adding all these Chinese holidays to the ones that we already celebrate!” —Isaiah (9 y/o)

Steve's Story, Hong Kong

“I had heard the term ‘American Dream’ back in Hong Kong, and had some ideas of what that meant to me personally—but coming here, being a part of not just the CCA student body, but a basketball team, a church, school clubs, volunteer teams, and a family that inspires me to love the Lord simply for who He is, has inexplicably surpassed anything I could have tried to attach to those two words. Every day I realize that what I feel above all else is an overwhelming thankfulness.” – Steve, International Student

A Mother's Story, Colombia

My family was extremely blessed to have the opportunity to send Gabriela to CCA for one full year. We have no doubt that a year at CCA was the best experience our daughter has had. We could see her grow spiritually, academically and socially.

"We could see her grow spiritually, academically and socially."

She constantly shared with us how much she loved to study at CCA, but in particular how much she loved her Bible class. She's known the Lord since she was born, but we could see how much she enjoyed and learned from her Bible class.

Even though she was far away from her parents' supervision, she was really motivated by her CCA's teachers. She even received an "Honoring Excellence" award for her great work. It was a challenge for her, as a native Spanish speaker, but it gave her the opportunity to improve her language skills.

She was blessed with wonderful host families, teachers and with many good friends. She keeps in touch with most of them and she cannot wait to see them again! Last year was one of the best experiences for Gabriela and our family.

Jessica's Story, Homestay Family

”My husband, David, and I were unsure of whether it was the best time to open our home and lives to an International Student since we have two young kids and demanding schedules, but we had been praying for so long about being foster parents, maybe this was the Lord's way of answering our prayers. What is our church's mission, the invisible heart that propels action from Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale? It is to go and make disciples by connecting people to God, people to people, and people to outreach, and in a way, we were given the opportunity to do all three without having to go anywhere since this disciple, conveniently, came to us.” —Jessica

Juan's Story, Colombia

When I was accepted at CCA, playing football wasn't in my plans — I was thinking about playing soccer. After I came, Coach Bombaro (middle school football) and his sons invited me to play football just for fun. He knew I liked to play soccer, so he told me to kick once. When I kicked it, he was surprised by how far the ball went!

That same day, he called the JV coach and soon I was accepted on the team and out kicking on the field. Being on the football team has helped me meet new friends and given me new opportunities, but it's also given me a new relationship with God.

"It's given me a new relationship with God."

These new experiences are possible only with God — He is the one that will make you feel like never before. Football season ended with a great record, but the experiences aren't over. I really appreciate the fun and awesome time I get to share with the football team.

Veronika's Story, Austria

My teachers are super nice and very, helpful; the students are great; making friends is easy, and there's always someone there to help. The first week I couldn't open my locker and the girl who had her locker next to mine offered to help. I was so surprised about how nice everyone was and it really helped me get used to my new environment.

The spiritual highlight was the retreat, because I learned so much and it helped me grow spiritually. Praying in class, and having a Bible class was amazing because I didn't have this at my old school.

Jose's Story, Colombia

My experience at CCA has been excellent. I came a week before starting classes so I had time to get to know the families and prepare with the staff for the school. The teachers were always open and took care of us during the process. The family I stayed with was a blessing and they were always available and helpful.

Shanae's Story, Bahamas

I have grown closer to God through the teachers, students and staff. Academically, the first few months were challenging, but the teachers truly are there to help in any way they can. My guidance counselor lifted me up and told me what I'm capable of doing, then when I brought my grades up she praised me.

If you want to go to a phenomenal Christian school, CCA is that school—not just because the teachers are loving and the campus is welcoming, but because this school stands on faith. I've made friends that I call family!

Gabriela's Story, Colombia

International students can select from the many elective class opportunities offered at CCA. As a Speech and Debate student, Gabriela ministered to and encouraged younger students while reinforcing her English skills through reading to Pre-Kindergarten students.

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Providing international students with a friendly and loving environment.

International - dinner

Homestay Testimonies

List of 2 members.

Naomi Peyton

Olga Gustavson

Your spare room can become an opportunity to dramatically impact the life of an international student! CCA and our homestays are co-laboring to make disciples from all over the globe!

Contact Olga to schedule an appointment.

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