Whittier's Transition from French to Spanish

As an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, Whittier is required to include the teaching of a world language. The purpose of teaching another language is to build an international perspective, to create a positive attitude towards language learning, to develop empathy for our English language learners, and to foster a sense on inclusion in a global community.

In the 2006-07 school year, we will begin teaching Spanish rather than French. Although teaching French met our overall objectives, it was not a good match for the 17-19% of our students who speak Spanish at home. It has been difficult for them to learn both English and French. Learning Spanish as our world language will honor and build upon their home language and culture. English will continue to be the language of instruction at Whittier and in our ESL classes but Spanish instruction in the homeroom will support English language acquisition.

Please read the full text (pdf).