World Language Program
We currently offer Mandarin Chinese, Latin, and French through our World Language Program.
Mandarin Chinese
We offer two tracks in our Mandarin Chinese program: one for heritage learners who already speak Chinese at home, and one for beginners with little or no prior exposure to the language.
Our heritage track helps students strengthen literacy, expand vocabulary, and build advanced reading and writing skills with the goal of reaching native-level proficiency and preparing for higher-level academic study, including AP Chinese.
Our beginner track focuses on building a strong foundation in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through structured, interactive lessons. It is an excellent supplement for students in U.S. middle and high schools who are taking Chinese and want extra support or a stronger foundation.
Why Learn Chinese? Hear from our Chinese teacher, Ms. Lu:
In today’s global world, Mandarin Chinese plays a more and more important role in the world. It is one of the most valuable languages a student can learn. As China continues to play a major role in business, technology, and international collaboration, learning Chinese helps students build a global mindset and connect across cultures.
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More and more forward-thinking families and schools recognize the importance of Mandarin, and many top independent schools now offer it as part of their world language programs. Starting early gives students a strong foundation and opens doors to future academic, professional, and global opportunities.
Latin
We help students build a strong foundation in Latin grammar, vocabulary, and translation while strengthening critical thinking and supporting success in English and other Romance languages. With consistent study and structured instruction, many of our students are well prepared to advance into AP Latin after several years of learning.
For students already taking Latin in middle or high school, or preparing for the National Latin Exam (NLE), we offer tailored classes designed to reinforce classroom learning, strengthen translation and grammar skills, and build confidence for exams and advanced coursework.
Why Learn Latin? Hear what our Latin teacher, Dr. Dennis, has to say:
Although it’s common place to call Latin a dead language, that’s really not true. Certainly, Latin itself is no longer spoken by a native population of people; however, Latin is no more dead than our own language. Instead, the Latin language evolved. It has changed into modern languages, found uses in the sciences, law, and continually influences our own language to this day. It is very much alive!
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Through the study of Latin, you’ll develop the super-power of being able to see how language has changed, evolved, and learn how to confront complex and difficult decisions of interpretation and translation. While you might not be able to speak Latin with a native population, the critical thinking capacity you develop through Latin is the ultimate transferable skill which will enable you approach problems from multiple directions, assess the strengths and weaknesses of positions, and inspire you to feel confident in the decisions you’ve made. The study of Latin enables you do infinitely more than just translate old text, so what’s keeping you from developing your own intellectual super power?
French
We offer French classes for both beginners and students with prior experience who want to strengthen their skills and build greater confidence in the language. Our program focuses on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing through structured, interactive lessons tailored to each student’s level and goals.
For students already taking French in middle or high school, we provide targeted support to reinforce classroom learning, strengthen grammar and vocabulary, improve conversational fluency, and build confidence for tests, advanced coursework, and long-term language proficiency.
