Frequently Asked Questions

What is immersion?

Immersion is defined as a method of foreign language instruction in which the regular curriculum in taught through the medium of the language. The foreign language is the vehicle for content instruction; it is not the subject of instruction. (Center for Applied Linguistics).

How does FISW differ from an American private school?

The FISW is committed to follow the French system which is renowned worldwide for its complete and rigorous curriculum. It teaches the students how to become active and responsible learners. The preschool taught by credentialed teachers, is the foundation of the educational system and prepares our students to achieve success in the primary grades.

How long will it take for my child to become fluent in another language?

Studies have shown that young children become linguistically capable in an immersion program within a year of involvement. It is our job to closely monitor academic as well as linguistic progress in order to address and resolve any impediments to the challenging curriculum. The Director will be happy to supply you with studies pertinent to the advantages of a bilingual education as well as a copy of the curriculum.

What is the student/teacher ratio?

Classes at the preschool level have a ratio of 10:1 at the most. They are in groups of up to 20 students with one teacher and an assistant.

Primary grades are typically smaller than public school classes with a goal of 17 students.

What are the qualifications of the teachers?

Teachers are selected according to the standards set by the French Ministry of Education. All including preschool teachers, hold teaching credentials from their native country. The criteria for teaching preschool, and elementary age children is commensurate with a masters qualification in the USA.

How are classes organized?

The FISW places students depending on their age and ability.  We also sometimes combine grades to allow students to benefit from a multi-age environment.

Will my child be able to transfer back within the French educational system with ease?

Absolutely. In fact, this is one of the reasons for instituting French Immersion schools in the United States. The FISW adheres to the pedagogy outlined and endorsed by the French National Ministry of Education. Reintegration is done easily.

Will my child be able to proceed within the American school system easily?

Again, yes. One of the reasons Americans find the FISW so attractive is that the high level of quality in education follows the highest standards for the public as well as for the independent school system.

Is the French Immersion School of Washington poised to prepare my child for entrance into the top schools at the time of middle school?

Absolutely. We have received approval by the State of Washington Board of Education and are fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education. All students take yearly evaluations and regularly scheduled exams for both the French and the American systems.

What happens after fifth grade?

Our students have successfully returned to the French system or enrolled in American schools, including top private schools in the area such as Overlake, Forest Ridge, Vista at Open Window, Seattle Academy of Arts and Science, and others.

A local public middle school, Tillicum in Bellevue, provides one elective class per day for our students to continue French at their level. This is a popular choice for our graduates, who are often enrolled in 7th grade math and even science after completing their FISW education.

Do you require an entrance exam?

A meeting with the director will be scheduled. It serves several purposes: it introduces your child to the school and allows us to determine if your child’s placement in the school is appropriate. Preschool children will be observed while using age-appropriate materials. Primary grades students will be given an assessment.

Is it possible to enroll my child at an upper grade level without a working knowledge of the French language?

No. Students need to be able to understand and converse in French to be enrolled in the elementary classes. An assessment will be done before they are accepted at the school.

We do not have French language skills. Will this prevent my child from progressing in French?

Our immersion program is designed to offset this by having the majority of the instructional time in French (75% versus 25% in English). Students also receive additional small group instruction if needed.  Over half of our families do not speak French as the main language at home, so we offer resources, such as after-school classes in French and borrowing privileges for parents at our school library, to supplement the child's exposure to French.

Does the language acquisition prevent children from achieving academic success?

On the contrary. Studies show that learning more than one language greatly enhances the students' overall capabilities. Teachers are aware that it takes longer for a child to speak than to understand a new language and design activities that are challenging but easily understandable.

What is the policy regarding discipline?

As a traditional European and American educational institution, the FISW teaches respect and responsibility to its students which most often precludes behavioral problems regarding discipline. As normal issues arise among children, our policy is to intelligently seek to resolve and teach the appropriate lessons with open and clear communication between the child, the teacher, the parents and the director. There are outlines which are set by the state of Washington as well.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. About 10% of our families receive some amount of help towards tuition. French nationals may apply to the French governement for assistance. Parents wishing to ask for financial aid should obtain the form to fill out at the time of registration.

What is the expected role of parents in the school?

Rather than calibrate or outline parental involvement, we assume that the families attracted to the French Immersion School of Washington are already interested and involved parents who expect to contribute to the betterment of their child’s education. We do need everyone's help to make the school function well!

Although it is common in other schools, we do not require volunteer hours. We believe that the school and the community of parents benefit from each other. We strongly encourage parents to be active in the school and help as much as possible. We offer a wide variety of ways that you can help the school if you wish, ranging from one-time options such as yard cleanup or field-trip chaperone to regular help, perhaps in the library or by filling a role in the Parent-Teacher Alliance.

Does FISW expect an annuity in addition to tuition?

The school is a non-profit organization, with most of its budget coming from your tuition. Fundraising covers the final 5-10% of the budget. Contributions to the school may take many forms. Some families are in a position to contribute monetarily; others prefer to give their time and volunteer. Tuition is designed to be as low as possible, so additional contributions through school fundraising activities, whether with time or money, are always welcome, as your budget and schedule allow, but they are not required.

Are there enrichment classes available?

Present enrichment class opportunities target areas that the Director and the parents feel to be of benefit to the children – the Music, Art, Cooking and Chess Clubs offer fun filled activities for after school hours.  In addition we have music labs and language classes in French and English.

Do the classes go on field trips?

Yes.  Our field trips include cultural events and opportunities.  In addition, FISW hosts events, demonstrations and performances on campus.