We know that choosing a school is a big decision for your family. Below are responses to some common questions from applicant families. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Curriculum Director.

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What are the school hours?

School starts at 8:30am for grades Kindergarten and up, and at 8:15am for preschool students. You may drop your student off in the classroom up to 15 minutes early free of charge.

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School ends at noon for preschool morning attendees, 3:00pm for full time preschool students, and 3:15pm for elementary students. Extended care is available before school starting at 7:45am and after school until 5:30pm. This service is known in the French educational system as garderie.

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What holiday schedule does the school follow?

FISW follows the French Ministry of Education schedule and plans a week-long break after every 6-7 weeks of school. This schedule divides the school year into 5 sections, with breaks falling at the end of October, the end of December, mid-February, and early to mid-April. While the October break is unusual for Washington State, the school attempts to align the other breaks with similar vacations in the Issaquah and Bellevue school districts. Childcare is available during Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Break for a limited number of students. The school also offers a six-week French immersion Summer Camp.

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Where do graduates of FISW go?

Students who complete the cycles of education at FISW have gone on to academic success in local public and private schools. Students have also successfully moved back and forth from the educational system in France. Our local schools tend to place our graduates in advanced math and science, and of course, French!

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Is FISW academically challenging?
FISW offers an academically demanding learning environment that asks students to engage fully in two languages and two academic frameworks. Students follow both French and English curricular expectations, which means they regularly encounter different approaches and methods, particularly in subjects such as mathematics.

In elementary, students are expected to complete homework in both French and English, reinforcing learning across languages and helping them develop strong organizational skills and intellectual flexibility. This approach requires students to be curious, adaptable, and open to learning in a new language, while supporting the development of solid academic foundations, confidence, and thoughtful learning habits.

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How does French immersion support learning and academic growth?
Learning in two languages supports cognitive development and helps students become flexible, attentive thinkers. At FISW, students learn academic content through French while also developing strong English literacy skills. This approach supports academic growth across disciplines and prepares students for future learning in a variety of educational settings.

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How does FISW compare with other private schools on the Eastside of Seattle?
Families considering FISW often appreciate the combination of academic expectations and bilingual education. While each school offers a distinct approach, FISW’s full French immersion model provides students with both a solid academic foundation and the opportunity to develop language skills and cultural awareness from an early age.

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How does FISW prepare students for middle and high school?
FISW emphasizes strong academic foundations, effective study habits, and independent thinking. Students are well prepared to transition to a range of middle and high school programs, bringing with them bilingual proficiency, confidence, and a positive approach to learning.

 

What type of student thrives at FISW?
Students who thrive at FISW are curious, engaged, and open to new ways of learning. The school supports students who enjoy academic exploration and who benefit from a learning environment that values effort, reflection, and collaboration.