Our World Language program begins in 6th grade with an exploratory experience, allowing students to learn two different languages over the course of the year. During this time, students will build foundational language skills and gain insight into the cultures where these languages are spoken.

All students will study Spanish as one of their languages. For their second language, students will select a first and alternate choice from French, Russian, or German. While every effort will be made to accommodate their selection, all students must indicate a choice, or one will be assigned to them. Students who are exempt from world language requirements due to an IEP or ENL status will have their schedules adjusted accordingly by the school counseling department.

After completion of the 6th grade world language program, students will identify their first and alternate choices for 7th grade.  In 7th grade, they will enter a more rigorous and structured program, focusing on deeper language acquisition and skill development. This intensive study continues through 8th grade, where students will complete their course of study in preparation for the proficiency exam. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, students will have the opportunity to advance and further expand their language studies in high school.  

Based on yearly enrollment, every effort will be made to accommodate a student’s first choice. However, the first choice cannot be guaranteed. 

The NYS graduation requirements mandate that all students (except those exempted by the Committee on Special  Education) study two years of one world language and pass the examination that is aligned to the Checkpoint A  learning standards for World Languages by the end of eighth grade. If a student fails to pass the exam he/she will  have to pass a high school Regents level world language course at the end of ninth grade.  

The eighth grade program is the second year of study in a rigorous middle school program. The course continues to improve and build their language skills across each mode of communication - Interpretive, interpersonal and presentational. This course is designed to establish a collaborative approach in which students apply their cultural knowledge and skills acquired from previous years of study. Upon successful completion of the course and demonstrated  proficiency, students receive one high school credit for Level 1.  

A Note of Caution: German 1R, French 1R and Russian 1R (Regents) are offered in grade eight only. Therefore, a student failing  one of these three courses in eighth grade will be required to begin the study of Spanish in ninth grade in order to  fulfill the world language graduation requirement. In Spanish, students have the option of repeating the Level 1  course in ninth grade if necessary.