Ohlone PTA Foreign Language Program 2010-2011
Foreign language classes have been part of Ohlone's after-school activities for over fifteen years. We currently offer classes in six languages - Spanish, French, Japanese, Mandarin, Hindi, and Hebrew by native language speaking teachers. (The Hebrew class is for native speakers). The 30 week program (September - May) is coordinated by parent volunteers and taught by independently contracted, experienced language instructors. All Ohlone students in grades K through 5 are eligible to apply (for K/1 eligibility, see Enrollment below). Classes meet right after school every Wednesday for a full hour. Last year, about one-third of the Ohlone student body participated in this program!
Each language and class has aslightly different flavor, but the overall goals of the program are as follows:
Early exposure of children to a foreign language as spoken by a native speaker
Classesare fun, low pressure, and interactive. These classes are for children who are interested in the language, motivated to learn, and are able to participate fully in the classroom. These classes are not an alternative for childcare. The first 3 weeks should be used as an assessment period before enrolling in class for the remainder of the year. There are no refunds after the third class. Although many children enjoy the program, it may not fit everyone.
The Foreign Language Program relies exclusively on parent volunteers to administer the program. Your involvement and participation are essential to the success of the program. A mandatory parent orientation meeting will be held on Monday, September 13 from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in the MP Room. This meeting is required for parents of new AND returning students - (please arrange for childcare, as this is an adults-only meeting). At this meeting, you will receive your child's classroom assignment, meet the teachers, and listen to important program information about class procedures, rules, disciplinary policy, parent volunteer duties, etc.
In addition to attending the mandatory orientation meeting, parents will be asked to assist the council in the following areas throughout the year. Sign up for your volunteer commitment on your student's registration form.
Room Parent - communicate classroom information, coordinate snacks, collect tuition, sign-out students
Classroom Assistant - assist teacher with activities and classroom management
Proctor - check roll sheets, track down absentees, monitor program while in session
Council Member - direct, administrate, and run program
Other - speak with a council member about other volunteer opportunities
| Class dates: | September 22, 29 (Hebrew starts September 15) |
| October 6, 13, 20, 27 | |
| November 3, 10, 17 |
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| December 1, 8, 15 | |
| January 5, 12, 26 | |
| February 2, 9, 23 | |
| March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 | |
| April 6, 20, 27 | |
| May 4, 11, 18, 25 |
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| Additional Wednesday dates may be added for makeup classes | |
| Time: | 1:35 to 2:35 PM |
| Location: | Ohlone Elementary School classrooms |
| Tuition: | $360 per child plus $10 Foreign Language Program fee. Total tuition is due October 6, 2010. One check may be written to cover all children in the family. If the class is full, your check will be returned. Note: Tuition does not include the non-refundable $10 per family application fee that is due with your registration form. |
| Refunds: | The first three classes are your opportunity to assess the class and your child's readiness and suitability for the program. You commit by paying the full tuition no later than October 6 (third class meeting). There are no refunds if a child leaves in the middle of the program for any reason. |
| Enrollment: | Class sizes are limited. If applications exceed spaces available, a lottery may be held. All ages (K thru 5th) are welcome, but we limit kindergarten participation to the Spanish 1 class, which is made up of all kindergarten students and is tailored for a younger child. We require Grades K/1 parents to conference with their regular classroom teacher to get approval on their child's readiness for an after school language class. |
| Registration: |
Complete and return the registration form to the Ohlone office no later than Friday, August 28 along with your $10 application fee (per family). Use a separate form for each child. Additional forms are also available in the office. |
| Important Dates/ Deadlines: |
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| Questions: | You can talk to any of us individually or email us collectively at ohloneforeignlanguage@gmail.com |
| Foreign Language Council 2010-2011 | |
| Prerana Vaidya | |
| Jade Chao |
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| Lizette Guardado | |
| Agnes Mangaoang |
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| updated August 21, 2010 |