World Language

Preparing students for a culturally diverse and linguistically-rich society is an important quality of K-12 education. In the Northshore School District, we provide opportunities for students to learn and communicate in languages beyond English through experiences that include a dual language school at the elementary level, a Spanish language course in middle school, and world language course offerings in the high schools.

Serving as an elementary dual language school, students at Woodin Elementary are immersed in English and Spanish language experiences throughout the day and within content area studies while middle schools offer Spanish 100 to eighth grade students.

In high schools, students may select from world language classes that include the study of Spanish, Japanese, Chinese Mandarin, French, German, and American Sign Language.

World language courses are based on the Washington State K-12 World Languages Learning Standards that encompass five critical goal areas and eleven standards. The standards for world languages were updated by OSPI during the 2014-15 school year to reflect the American Standards for Foreign Languages in conjunction with Common Core State Standards, 21st Century Skills, and College and Career Readiness skills. Known as the foundation of world language education, the five C’s--communication, cultures, connections, comparisons, and communities--are essential components of our world language curriculum.

Students in Northshore will acquire a new language as they learn how to communicate, present ideas, and build upon interpersonal skills through culturally responsive teaching and learning practices.