Learning at French International
French International is an independent, language immersion, IB World School. In a collaborative, inquiry-based environment, students are empowered to be curious, think critically, challenge assumptions, and develop a love of learning.
As the longest-established language immersion school in Portland, French International School of Oregon builds this foundation in Early Childhood/Maternelle and Lower School and expands upon it in the Middle School. In addition, French International's Extended Learning department offers robust programs including Early Arrival, Aftercare, athletics, camps, and more.
Maternelle (TPS-K)
Maternelle is the early childhood program at French International beginning at 2.5 years old. French International uses play-based inquiry in a nurturing French immersion learning environment as a springboard to the IB Primary Years Programme which starts in preschool. No previous French is required to enter Maternelle.
Middle School (6th-8th)
In Middle School, students focus on collaboration and interdisciplinary learning as they follow the IB Middle Years Programme. Students with high-level second-language skills enter immersion tracks in French, German, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish. Students who are not already bilingual enter an English-focused track (International Track) and all students start a new language when they enter Middle School. Teachers collaborate as they deliver one core curriculum in five different languages.
Lower School (1st-5th)
Lower School expands on the foundation built in Maternelle and follows the IB Primary Years Programme in a French immersion setting. The IB is used as a framework for teaching as students build authentic connections to nature, follow their own inquiries, and discover the world.
Extended Learning
The Extended Learning Department includes the other experiences that happen outside of the teaching and learning in the classroom. This includes Early Care, Aftercare, and Afterschool Explorers. Extended Learning also manages ACE Week and Summer Camps, and athletics.