FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Foreign Language in the Elementary School (FLES)

Foreign language classes at the elementary school level offer a comprehensive, sequential, community-based language program in either Spanish or Japanese. Second language instruction is provided in three 30-minute classes per week during the school day.

The goals for students in the program include to understand and communicate in the target language in various settings; to learn about various cultures; and to make connections within and beyond the school community.

Current research indicates that early second language instruction is beneficial for all children. Children will develop native-like pronunciation and the ability to communicate fluently in the target language. They become more flexible in their thinking; improve their problem-solving skills; and are more aware of their first language.

Foreign Language in the Junior High Schools

Junior high school students have the option of taking Spanish or French as electives during their seventh- and eighth-grade years.