Los Alamitos Education Foundation’s free World Language Classes for 2nd graders are off to a fantastic start this fall thanks to our talented LAEF instructors. Nearly 200 students are enrolled in these free classes ranging from Mandarin and Japanese to Spanish, French and American Sign Language depending on the school site.
French students at Weaver were treated to quite the cultural experience when their teacher, Rebecca Hollis, helped the students channel their inner enfants français! She brought the French culture to the classroom and the students thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Students posed for pictures in front of the Eiffel Tower with French props, experienced eating off proper china plates, as is customary in schools in France, and could not get enough of the French baguettes and butter, along with other delicious French snacks. Ms. Hollis thought the day was a success and exclaimed, “One thing is certain – children love fresh, soft baguettes with French butter and socializing over food!” Ms. Hollis was also very thankful to the many parent volunteers who helped make this day a success.
LAEF’s goal is to expose children to languages they can pursue further in their secondary education and to introduce them to other cultures.
Studies have shown that learning another language at an early age is great for brain development, enhances academic achievement, boosts empathy and cross-cultural understanding, and increases creativity and problem-solving skills. LAEF hopes to expand free or reduced-fee language classes to additional grade levels in the future.
LAEF is the non-profit partner of Los Alamitos Unified School District. LAEF enhances educational excellence by providing after-school and summer enrichment programs to children in grades Pre-K to 12. LAEF provides significant funding for STEAM teachers and instruction, as well as igniting new programs and providing valuable resources, to impact all students. For more information on LAEF, call 562 799-4700 Extension 80424 or visit www.LAEF4Kids.org.
