Languages

Fluency in multiple languages is not only a valuable asset, but can also contribute to a greater appreciation of different cultures. At Stamford American, we make world language learning possible for children as young as 18 months. Through our World Language Program, we offer daily instruction in Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, Japanese and English. Coupled with our community-based Mother Tongue Program, Stamford American’s language curriculum offers literacy in multiple languages.

Early Years & Elementary School Options

Every child in our Early Learning Village and Elementary School receives daily Mandarin or Spanish lessons as part of the language curriculum. In Middle school and High school, these classes become more intensive 80-minute sessions every other day. Progress is measured across 9 levels for Spanish and 7 levels for Mandarin. Students have the opportunity to learn at their own pace and are assessed regularly to track their progress and set learning goals.

Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 5

Students who wish to invest more time and effort to learning a second language may participate in the Bilingual Program at no additional cost. This program seamlessly blends English and Mandarin instruction to create a dynamic and rigorous learning experience.

With 400 minutes of immersive and intensive Chinese learning each week rooted in IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) principles and aligned with ACTFL, Common Core and China National Curriculum standards our program balances academic excellence with holistic growth.

Kindergarten to Grade 10

We live in a globalized world where many children speak a language other than English at home and in early education. However, to access and recognize the value of world-class education systems, they need a program that actively works to improve their English skills.

The Stamford American English as an Additional Language (EAL) program provides a supportive and inclusive environment tailored to students’ varying levels of English proficiency. Students with mid to high English proficiency are fully integrated into mainstream classrooms, where they receive targeted support from experienced EAL specialists. For students new to English, specialized homerooms/subject classes offer intensive language instruction while fostering regular interactions with English-speaking peers. Our ultimate goal is to equip EAL students with the communicative skills they need to engage confidently and independently with their peers in academic, social, and cultural contexts, without the need for additional language support.

For Grade 6 to Grade 10, the Preparatory Course for Secondary School (PCS) provides a comprehensive 20-week program that enhances English proficiency while immersing students in an IB-style curriculum. Through a focus on language development and well-being, PCS empowers students to thrive in a multicultural academic environment.

Grade 6 to Grade 12

Students will engage with a variety of texts, including short stories, novels, and nonfiction. The curriculum focuses on close reading and seminar discussions to enhance analytical skills. Students will produce responses in spoken, written, and dramatic formats while improving their essay writing, vocabulary, and grammar. Assessments include essays, speeches, and a media project, emphasizing critical thinking and persuasive communication. The course also encourages connections between literary themes and real-world issues, preparing students for the IB Language A framework and refining their analytical writing skills.

Stamford American offers an after-school home language program through our international community of parents and professionals. Weekly lessons are currently offered in these languages including Swedish, Italian, Finnish and Hungarian.

In addition to native language teachers, students in the program have access to classroom facilities, IT support, library resources and a space to hold special events. This is a special opportunity for our diverse group of students to honor and celebrate their native language and cultural identity.