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    Welcome to APS World Languages!

    Language and communication are at the heart of the human experience. Learning to communicate in another language is critical to our students' ability to succeed in a global society. The APS Office of Multilingual Programs + Services envisions a future of biliteracy in which all students will develop and maintain proficiency in at least two languages. Our focus areas are as follows:
    • Ensure students receive quality instruction in the target language through an articulated, sequential program which prepares them for college, career, and life in a global society;
    • Provide opportunities for cultural and linguistic enrichment through authentic interactions and engaging instruction.


    Are you interested in becoming an APS World Languages Teacher?

    APS is always looking for master educators who believe in the potential of our students and are committed to making a difference in student lives. Click here for information on how to navigate the certification process for world language teaching: GA Certification Guidance World Languages

    APS World Languages

    World Language selection is determined at the school level in consultation with the district and in alignment with the Cluster articulation.

    Elementary School Languages: Chinese, French, Spanish

    Middle School Languages: Chinese, French, Japanese, Spanish

    High School Languages: Arabic, ASL (American Sign Language), Chinese, French, Japanese, Latin, Spanish

    If you are interested in finding out more about teaching opportunities in APS World Languages, contact Dr. Margaret McKenzie at mamckenzie@atlanta.k12.ga.us

     

    Spotlights 
     
     Follow us on Twitter at @apsWorldLang
     

     
     
    What's happening in the World of World Languages?
     
    The organizations below are excellent resources to explore to learn more about world languages locally and nationally. 
     
     

    World Language Professional Organizations

     
    American Council of Teachers of Foreign Language  ACTFL
    Foreign Language Association of Georgia  FLAG
    Southern Conference on Language Teaching  SCOLT
    South East Coastal Conference on Language Learning   SECCLL
    American Association of Teachers of French  AATF
    American Association of Teachers of German  AATG
    American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese   AATSP
    American Classical League  ACL                            
     
    Elementary School Programming
    The APS World Languages program is required for all APS elementary schools. The selection of the language is determined at the school level and must be in line with the World Language program articulation for the Cluster. The school also determines the grade level which the program begins and the frequency. According to the established APS Standards of Service the minimum amount of world language is 30 minutes per week, and 90 minutes per week for IB schools. In accordance with International Bacceleaurate Organization, the elementary world language program is required to begin by 2nd grade in IB authorized schools. Parents should contact their local school for more information about their school's world language programming.
     
    Middle School Programming
    The APS World Languages program in middle school continues the language begun in elementary school. Middle school students have the opportunity to earn high school credit in world language while still in middle school. Parents should contact their local school for more information about this opportunity.
     
    High School Programming
    The APS World Languages program in high school provides students with an opportunity to continue their language study with access to additional languages and upper levels. Students who complete the AP and IB levels will be considered for the Seal of Biliteracy. If the AP or IB level is not offered, students may contact the World Language Department Chair at their school for information on testing options.
     
     

    Dual Language Immersion
    In addition to world language program options, several schools also provide the APS Dual Language Immersion program, providing students with 50% of the instructional day in Spanish. For SY2025 following schools have DLI strand programs: 
     
    DLI Program Elementary Schools
    Benteen Elementary
    Bolton Academy
    E Rivers Elementary
    Garden Hills Elementary
    Morris Brandon Elementary
    Sarah Smith Elementary

    DLI Program Middle Schools
    M L King Middle School (6th grade only)
    Sutton Middle School
     
    DLI Program High Schools
    North Atlanta High School (9th grade only)
     
    Visit the APS DLI Program webpage for more information.
     
    Professional Learning 
     
    Multilingualism matters! Building effective world language classrooms through oral proficiency and comprehensible input requires professional learning and collaboration. The APS World Languages team supports all world language teachers through synchronous and asynchronous opportunities, job-embedded coaching, and support. World Language teachers should visit KickUp to review the course catalog and register for courses and connect with the World Languages Team for additional support and information.
     
    Maria Dunbar
    Coordinator, World Languages
     
    Katie Might
    District Instructional Coach, World Languages