Foreign Language Enrichment -
Frequently Asked Questions
What languages are offered at the Middle School in the regular curriculum?
First year high school Spanish and Portuguese are offered by PMS in the eighth grade. All students will receive foreign language instruction provided by the district five times a week.
What is Foreign Language Enrichment?
Foreign Language Enrichment is a before and after school program offering foreign language instruction to the PMS students. It is organized and administrated entirely by parent volunteers. The program is cumulative –each level builds upon the last - and is designed for elementary and middle school aged children. Classes are academic in nature, employing creative ways to engage children and make learning fun. The enrichment program is independent and not-for-profit (a 501c3 corporation), and is not part of public education.
When did it begin?
The first foreign language enrichment class at PMS was held in 2006-2007, as an extension of the foreign language enrichment elementary curriculum.
Why?
Language skills are most easily assimilated during the formative years. The neurological development that occurs while learning a new language offers expanded capacity for other subjects in addition to language, with positive lifetime learning consequences. Foreign Language Enrichment is offered as a direct result of parent and student demand.
What languages are offered by Portsmouth Enrichment Incorporated?
Spanish, French and Chineseare offered as Foreign Language Enrichment at PMS before and/or after school.
Why did you pick those languages?
In addition to English, Chinese and Spanish are the most spoken languages worldwide. French has been offered by popular demand. Learning Chinese is gaining popularity worldwide because China is gaining influence globally.
How much does it cost?
Tuition is estimated to be $175.00 for twenty-two classes. A materials fee is assessed at Level I for books/materials. We may assess a materials charge if a new book is necessary. When are classes held?
Before school classes are held at 7:00 AM. Students are dismissed to their home-rooms. After school classes are held after normally scheduled classes (students are dismissed to enrichment classes from their homerooms) and end at 3:40 PM.
Who teaches the classes?
All teachers are experienced educators and have excellent credentials. A Chinese teacher search is underway. Substitutes will fill in if the need arises.
Will classes be available if I my child didn't attend at the elementary level? Will there still be an opportunity for them to take foreign language enrichment?
Yes! Beginners are welcome! The enrichment program has been able to accommodate many learners, at many levels.
What is expected from my child if he/she attends classes?
Students are expected to be respectful to the instructor, fellow students, and classroom materials. Behavioral problems may result in dismissal from the program. Homework is assigned at all levels. Student’s skills may be assessed close to year-end. This assessment is a valuable aide to the teacher, so she/he may confidently continue teaching material that is cumulative in nature, insuring the success of every student. Parents of students demonstrating a need for strengthening in the basic skill set will be informed and students supported with an opportunity for reassessment.
How do I know how my child is doing?
If you are wondering about your child’s performance, please ask; send a note, e-mail, or call the school and leave a message. All teachers welcome your inquiry. Additionally, the foreign language enrichment coordinators will supply contact information to you. We’re friendly and approachable.
Will PMS make a special section for advanced Spanish students when they reach the eighth grade?
Although the foreign language chair at PMS supports our enrichment program, the decision to hold a separate section of Spanish for high performing students when they reach eighth grade will need the support of upper administration. Although we are hopeful, there is no guarantee.
What foreign languages are offered at PHS (Portsmouth High School)?
Spanish, Portuguese, and French are currently offered.
Who should I contact if I have other questions?
Please feel free to contact Charlotte Solly
Allayne Boruch
Donna Matthews at
or Gretchen Markert at
. Please type “Foreign Language Enrichment” in the subject heading when emailing.