Free World Language classes are offered to all 2nd and 3rd graders in the Los Alamitos Unified School District.
LAEF’s goal is to expose children to languages they can pursue further in their secondary education and to introduce them to other cultures.
Languages offered: Spanish, Mandarin, American Sign Language, French and Japanese
14 classes offered each semester
250 students take Free World Language Classes each semester
The idea of offering free language classes came from Retired Los Alamitos Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Sherry Kropp, who served as a volunteer advisor on LAEF’s Board of Directors. The free classes are being offered to 2nd graders due to the recommendation of the World Language Department at Los Alamitos High School, as they are stronger in reading and writing skills than younger students. Studies have shown that learning another language at an early age is great for brain development, enhances academic achievement, boosts empathy and cross-cultural understanding, and increases creativity and problem-solving skills. LAEF hopes to expand free or reduced-fee language classes to additional grade levels in the future.
French students at Weaver were treated to quite the cultural experience when their teacher, Rebecca Hollis, helped the students channel their inner enfants français! She brought the French culture to the classroom and the students thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Students posed for pictures in front of the Eiffel Tower with French props, experienced eating off proper china plates, as is customary in schools in France, and could not get enough of the French baguettes and butter, along with other delicious French snacks. Ms. Hollis thought the day was a success and exclaimed, “One thing is certain – children love fresh, soft baguettes with French butter and socializing over food!” Ms. Hollis was also very thankful to the many parent volunteers who helped make this day a success.