Beech Tree News Network

On August 8, 2019, Sandra Valencia-Coso arrived in Kentucky from Madrid, Spain as an exchange student.  During the time she has been here she resided with Mike and Donna Newland and attended Butler County High School.  Sandra participated in both co-ed and girls soccer, Pep Club, and Spanish Club.  She made numerous friends at school and thoroughly enjoyed learning about American culture.  According to Sandra, what she loved most about being here was experiencing living in a rural area. Her other highlight was getting to know and grow close to Camryn, her host sister.  Camryn became the sister Sandra has never had.

The COVID 19 pandemic abruptly ended her time at school and put a huge damper on Sandra’s social life.  However, she remarked that she felt safe here during the height of the pandemic.

While staying in Morgantown Sandra attended Crossland Community Church and was active in its youth group.  She was also able to travel to St. Louis, Nashville, Louisville, Holiday World, and Kingsport, TN.  While in Kingsport she explored Bays Mountain, and at other times during her stay visited Mammoth Cave, Shanty Hollow, and various other local attractions.

On June 2, 2020 Sandra will depart for Madrid where she will reunite with her family and prepare for her final year of public school.  She will be missed but her spirit will live on in all of the lives she has touched.  Best wished for a wonderful and fulfilling life, Sandra.  She will be missed.