French Immersion at Evangeline, Prairie, and Myrtle Place
Speak a Louisiana Heritage Language that is also an important International Language
Bravo! Choosing an immersion experience for your child gives them distinct advantages for the rest of their lives. In this environment, students’ brains make more connections enabling them to think more creatively and become excellent problem-solvers. Students in immersion environments generally outperform students in traditional classrooms on standardized tests and have increased social skills. They grow healthy brain tissue which will keep their brains active and alert for a longer period of their lives! An investment in immersion is an investment in well-being and achievement.
Students are instructed in English plus another “Target Language,” in this case French, during their PreK-12 learning journey. In immersion environments, students are exposed to a minimum of 60% of their day in the “Target Language” you select. They learn math, science, social studies, language and culture, plus much more. Some parents may wonder if the immersion model of instruction will affect their child’s reading ability in English. Several studies have found that the reading and study skills learned in French transfer into English. That is, once a child has grasped that letters make sounds, and sounds combine to make words, that skill is applicable to any language with the same alphabet. Bilingualism enhances children’s understanding of the workings of language, and since one-third of the words in English are of French origin—knowledge of French helps build vocabulary for reading in English.
Immersion is not only for the best and brightest. Immersion is for every child.
Some other benefits include: - Entry points in PreK, Kindergarten, and 1st grade via the Magnet Academies lottery;
- Access to an International Language Diploma program beginning in 5th grade, the DELF;
- Access to the Seal of Biliteracy, an academic endorsement for their high school diploma;
- Possible FREE language course credits when entering a college or university.
*Students who are currently in a Pre-K Immersion environment must apply for lottery by the lottery application deadline to receive pathway priority into Kindergarten.
French Immersion Pre-K students may apply for French Immersion at any French Immersion school (Evangeline, Myrtle Place or Prairie).
While in middle school, students may earn French I and French II credit before entering High School.
Transportation is provided for our Immersion students throughout the district, depending on bus and bus stop availability. If your family requires transportation assistance, please verify the availability of convenient satellite stops near you.
Secondary Pathway
- French Immersion 5th grade students will automatically be enrolled in Middle School Immersion at Scott Middle.
- French Immersion 8th grade students will automatically be enrolled in High School Immersion at Lafayette High.
*Students only receive pathway priority in the same language.
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