foreign language an elective in middle school? Is this right?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I can see making an exception for kids who aren't yet proficient in reading. No way would I privilege a second art elective over a foreign language -- at least not by middle school.

Regarding the 7 periods a day thing, this could be solved if MoCo used block scheduling. Studies have shown this is an effective learning method as kids alternate days for classes and have longer instructional periods. This also gives kids better control over their homework planning. I've seen clock scheduling work very well in middle and high schools. Moco ought to consider it.

My child at TPMS has block scheduling, and takes a foreign language.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Wow, I had no idea this was the case. I grew up in Mass where everyone started a foreign language in 6th grade but many towns started in 4th. My father was actually very disappointed that only French and Spanish were offered in middle school as he'd taken Latin beginning in 7th grade and found it highly useful. I just had to wait until high school. Frankly, I think it's kind of sad that they don't value foreign languages here as much. I still kick myself for not having kept it up past college.

I grew up in Mass. as well and everyone took foreign language starting in 7th grade, many of us for 6 years by the time we finished high school. I also took Latin in high school.

Given how great MCPS thinks it is, it is kind of shocking to me that the system doesn't offer Latin in all of its high schools.

[Anonymous]

I think Newport Mill may do block scheduling. Or at least some sort of modified schedule.

I grew up in TX, and we could start Spanish or French in the 6th grade. It was not mandatory.

I don't think foreign language in middle school should be mandatory, but I am extremely disappointed to hear that it isn't available to all.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I think Newport Mill may do block scheduling. Or at least some sort of modified schedule.

I grew up in TX, and we could start Spanish or French in the 6th grade. It was not mandatory.

I don't think foreign language in middle school should be mandatory, but I am extremely disappointed to hear that it isn't available to all.

It is very disappointing.

Several years ago, my child got into both the Takoma Park MS and Eastern magnets, and chose TPMS in great part because foreign language is offered. Eastern kids can take it, but only after school, which is not reasonable IMO.

[Anonymous]

I'm from FL and foreign language study started in early elementary (I believe first or second grade) when I was a kid. I'm now a MoCo parent...and I wish my child could benefit from this experience!