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World Language Specialty Program

Language and communication are at the heart of the human experience. Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) will educate students to communicate both linguistically and culturally in our own multicultural society and abroad.

Knowledge of more than one language and culture enables students to do the following:

  • Communicate with people of other cultures.
  • Develop insight into their own language and culture.
  • Expand their world view.
  • Develop appreciation, sensitivity, and respect for all people.
  • Access authentic sources of information directly.
  • Participate more fully in the global community and marketplace.

Program Features

  • Tiered class structures to ensure a strong base for our novice language learners.
    • Tier I (Level 1) of French or Spanish is divided between 6th & 7th grade.
    • Tier II (Level 2) is taken during 8th .
  • In order to remain in the program students need to maintain C+ or above and satisfactory of above marks in conduct and effort. 
  • Upon successful completion of the program, the student will receive 2 high school credits toward graduation requirements.
  • Opportunities to use language skills in many different ways, including cultural celebrations, field trips, and more!
     

Application Information

Who can apply?

Applications for this program are open for rising 6th-grade students who are interested in learning French or Spanish.

When to apply?

Specialty program applications will be accepted November 3, 2024 - February 1, 2025.

How to apply?

Visit the Specialty Programs Application Process website to learn more about the application process.

Contact Information

Erica Maibeth
[email protected] 
703-361-3106

Attendance Areas

Benton MS, Bull Run MS, Gainesville MS, Marsteller MS, Parkside MS, Reagan MS, The Nokesville School, and Unity Braxton MS

School-Based Information Sessions

School Based Information Sessions:
Thursday November 6th 5:30 pm Parkside library
Thursday January 15th 5:30 pm Parkside library
 
Countywide MS Specialty Information Sessions: 
October 23 6:30 pm via webinar.

Learn more about Specialty Programs in PWCS

Parkside MS World Languages Specialty Program

students

Bienvenidos! Bienvenue! Welcome!

Parkside Middle School is proud to offer a two-tiered World Language curriculum to allow all students to be successful. Please contact an administrator, the guidance office, or Erica Maibeth, World Language Specialty Program Coordinator, at [email protected] with any questions.

Tier I:
Through the PWCS application process, incoming sixth graders may choose to take either Spanish or French in a three class sequence (IA, IB, II)over three years. Upon successful completion, students will earn two high school credits.

Tier II:
Eighth grade students may opt to take either Spanish I or French I as a full year course. Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school credit.

World Language Program Highlights

  • Cultural celebrations are embedded into our program classes.
  • Field trips to local museums, restaurants, stores and theaters for the opportunity to use language skills in authentic ways.
  • International Night which showcases Parkside’s rich and diverse cultural heritage through musical performances, dance, fashion, food and student projects for the entire school community.
  • World Language Week where we celebrate other languages and cultures through dress up themes, a parade, and international tasting stations.
  • Trips abroad to be able to expand the student’s use of language and cultural knowledge.

Specialty Program Coordinator

Bonjour! Hola!

My name is Erica Maibeth and I am the World Language Program Specialty Coordinator here at Parkside Middle School. Parkside Middle currently offers French and Spanish starting in sixth grade. I assist students in applying for the program and at times act as a liaison between elementary school students and Parkside Middle. In a typical school year we hold 2 open house meetings where students interested in applying to the World Language program can come and see the school and get information about the program and how to apply. These evenings are usually in November and January. I am also available to give a tour of the school or answer any questions about the program via email at [email protected].

We look forward to helping your child acquire a new language!