[Pc324]

Does anyone know of public or private schools in Fairfield or New Haven counties that offer strong foreign language instruction starting at the elementary level. Specifically we are interested in Spanish or Mandarin, but would be interested in other languages if the program is strong .

Based on the website info, it looks like Woodbridge and Guilford start Spanish instruction at the K/1 level, but I'm wondering how rigorous the programs are, and what language proficiency the students actually achieve?

[Raider111]

Originally Posted by Pc324

Does anyone know of public or private schools in Fairfield or New Haven counties that offer strong foreign language instruction starting at the elementary level. Specifically we are interested in Spanish or Mandarin, but would be interested in other languages if the program is strong .

Based on the website info, it looks like Woodbridge and Guilford start Spanish instruction at the K/1 level, but I'm wondering how rigorous the programs are, and what language proficiency the students actually achieve?

I believe Side Step Elementary in Norwalk offers Spanish. I think it's called that, or similar sounding.

[poodlecamper]

Grandson in Guilford (first grade) has Spanish. I would say it's "Spanish lite".

[Pc324]

Originally Posted by poodlecamper

Grandson in Guilford (first grade) has Spanish. I would say it's "Spanish lite".

That's a bummer to hear, but good to know, thanks!

[JayCT]

Most public schools that offer a foreign language at a lower grade do not have rigorous programs. It is just not practical in that environment. If that is what you truly want for your child and you can afford it, I would check with some of the private schools. Off hand I would check with Greens Farms Academy, Fairfield Country Day and Unquowa School. I am sure there are others. Jay

[cynic1]

Brunswick School ( all boys ) in Greenwich ... offers Spanish starting in the third grade... Spanish, Mandarin, French and Latin .... in middle school ... Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin, Latin and Arabic ( thru AP's ) in the upper school.

[CTlibrarian]

The CT State Dept of Education has some info on their website:

SDE: World Languages

The chart I looked at "world languages starting in elementary and middle schools" shows quite a few schools that start foreign language instruction in K or 2. This chart is from 2007-2008 so quite out of date. Perhaps a call to the SDE could provide you with more current information.

[jax12479]

I believe most Greenwich public elementary schools have introductory Spanish and French options, which get more intensive in the middle schools. You won't find Mandarin, German, Italian etc until the high school level. The board of Ed site would have more detailed info.