Providing K-12 students with French-speaking backgrounds free French classes and access to community-building activities.
Overview
The French Heritage Language Program (FHLP) provides free French classes and cultural experiences to K-12 students from Francophone backgrounds, helping to preserve their linguistic and cultural heritage. Through innovative pedagogical and community-building activities, FHLP supports students in strengthening their French language skills, empowering them to maintain a crucial link to their heritage, succeed academically, and opening doors to future educational and career opportunities.
Reach
With a presence in New York, Washington, Louisiana, Georgia, Illinois, and Minnesota, FHLP has impacted over 2,500 K-12 students to date. In collaboration with public schools, community centers, and local organizations, we are expanding access to heritage language education for Francophone communities across the U.S. Our classes emphasize cultural and academic engagement and are a part of the larger French for All initiative, which promotes equity in access to French language education.
Outcomes
Our students achieve measurable outcomes, including:
- Enhanced Literacy: Strengthening both French and English language skills, contributing to academic success.
- Accredited Proficiency: Opportunities to earn the AP French credit, the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, and the Global Seal of Biliteracy.
- Career Pathways: Mentorship programs that leverage students’ bilingual skills and cultural knowledge.
- Cultural Engagement: Participation in events like the Première Scène Theatre Festival, the New York African Film Festival, and collaborations with institutions such as the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) and Princeton University.
Grants
To further support educational initiatives, FHLP offers several grant opportunities, including:
Pedagogical Project Grant
- Provides funding for schools and community organizations to implement French heritage classes, with grants of up to $30,000. This grant enables programs to create culturally relevant, inclusive, and dynamic language instruction tailored to Francophone students in the U.S. In addition, funds are available for organizing cultural events, such as film screenings, theater festivals, and art projects. These activities celebrate the rich cultural backgrounds of Francophone students and encourage community connection and heritage preservation.
Professional Learning Opportunity
- FHLP is committed to the development of educators. Through the annual French for All Summer Institute, teachers gain access to professional training focused on French heritage language instruction. Educators explore the latest in pedagogy, methodologies, and cultural insights, fostering a sense of community and shared learning among French language instructors nationwide.
Contact
For any questions regarding the application process, please contact:
Yann Gaboriau – Program Coordinator | French Heritage Language Program