Language and Culture

The mission of the Upper School Department of Languages and Cultures is to provide students with a rigorous program wherein they can dedicate themselves to gaining proficiency in at least one other language (Latin, Mandarin, or Spanish), while also acquiring knowledge of other countries, their cultures and a broader understanding of the world. In modern language classrooms we stress the target language as the means of teacher-student and student-student communication. We integrate the four language skills into our activities and assessments, and strive to make language-learning accessible for students of all backgrounds and abilities. Our language classes include relevant and engaging activities such as interviews, presentations, small group work, games, skits, research, recordings, projects, and viewing of films. We strive to provide real-life contexts for students as they negotiate meaning. Aside from our academic courses, we offer international travel opportunities, Honor Societies, a Foreign Film Club, a school-wide Language Day, National Exams/Competitions administration, and also support study abroad experiences.

All students are required to complete a language (Latin, Mandarin, or Spanish) through the third level.