Supporting French language education through funding and resources to ensure students across the U.S. gain access to enriched academic pathways and global competencies.
Overview
The French as a World Language Program (FWLP) supports French Language Education in U.S. K-12 public schools through funding and resources. By providing essential support, the FWL programs ensures that students across the country have access to enriched academic pathways to develop global competencies necessary for thriving in a multi-lingual world
The FWLP supports the existing and growing network of French programs through the creation of initiatives and allocation of grants to support pedagogical objectives, language certifications (DELF-DALF), project creation and implementation (1) immersive experiences in French-speaking cinema (2), and implementation of professional learning opportunities (3).
Eligibility: Grants are intended for teachers, PTOs, school administrators, school districts, and state agencies who wish to obtain resources and funding for French programs. Applicants must manage a French language program that serves 20+ students.
Reach
The program expands French language teaching and learning by creating pathways for educators and students from various backgrounds to connect with Francophone cultures, develop multilingual skills, and prepare for global opportunities. The FWLP supports young learners across the US and serves French students, American anglophone students, and students from diverse international backgrounds who speak French as a heritage language.
Outcomes
As part of the effort to streamline our efforts and initiatives, though the FWLP we are committed to making French language education accessible through close collaboration with school districts and local agencies in order to facilitate funding opportunities and create a network of schools. Furthermore, we are dedicated to enhancing language learning through a school pairing process, enabling institutions to work together to foster cultural exchanges and improve pedagogical methods.
Grants
Three Initiatives support the French as a World Language Program (FWLP):
Pedagogical Project Grants
- Directly addresses school and teachers’ needs through an annual grant cycle responding to requests for: pedagogical resources, French language certifications (DELF-DALF), and school exchange projects established through existing MOUs. In addition, the grant aims to foster vibrant Francophone learning environments by supporting the creation of dedicated cultural spaces, such as Francophone zones in school libraries, Francophone film festivals and creative workshops led by Francophone artists and authors.
- Brings French-language cinema to schools. Designed for K-12 students, it offers a curated selection of age-appropriate films each, all available with English subtitles and online for viewing at home. The films cover a variety of genres and themes to support classroom discussions.
Professional Learning Opportunities
- Supports teachers and administrators with professional learning opportunities through our Annual French for All Summer Institute. This opportunity will empower educators to refine their pedagogical approaches and acquire new expertise, fostering both formal instruction and informal dialogue. This initiative will address professional, disciplinary, and methodological advancements in the field of French as a world language. Additionally, educators from across the US will gather to cultivate a sense of community and share best practices within the French as a World Language network.
Contact
For any questions regarding the application process, please contact:
Yoël KIDANE – Educational Affairs Program Officer | French as a World Language Program
Image: (c) Kyle Glenn