United States, Portland
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The school emphasizes student-centered learning and sees, supports, and empowers each child to thrive. The environment fosters independence and motivation, helping students build a lasting love of learning. Through hands-on activities, engaging lessons, and the use of technology, students are prepared to participate actively in their education. The curriculum is rooted in the French Ministry of Education, providing a strong academic foundation within a bilingual context. The program aims to build global awareness and respect for cultural traditions, and teachers create a vibrant, supportive space where students feel safe, excited, and ready to learn.
The program provides a bilingual French-English learning experience, with instruction rooted in French language and culture. Preschool and Pre-K do not require prior knowledge of French; students in 1st through 5th grade must show sufficient French proficiency for their grade. Approximately 75% of instructional time is in French and 25% in English, with additional small-group instruction available if needed. More than 70% of families do not speak French as their home language, and resources include adult after-school French classes and access to the school library to supplement exposure to French. The curriculum follows the French Ministry of Education framework, organized into cycles (e.g., Maternelle, Primary School).
The school provides a safe and supportive space where students feel safe, excited, and ready to learn. It fosters independence, motivation, and a love of learning through student-centered approaches and engaging, hands-on activities. The learning environment is described as vibrant and supportive, contributing to students' overall wellbeing as they grow academically and culturally. The bilingual program and French-language culture are integrated in a way that supports confidence and a positive attitude toward learning. The school aims to prepare students for the future while promoting curiosity and respect for others.
The school provides a safe and supportive space where every child thrives.
L'Etoile French Immersion School is a private preschool through 5th grade in Portland, with two campuses: Hood Avenue for preschool and Miles Street for elementary. It offers a full French Ministry of Education curriculum organized in cycles: Petite Section, Moyenne Section, Grande Section; CP-CM2 in primary. Instruction is bilingual, with about 75% of learning in French and 25% in English, taught by native French teachers. About 90% of the faculty are certified by the French MoE. The calendar mirrors public schools; the academic day runs 8:30 am–3:00 pm, with aftercare 3:00–6:00 pm and optional early drop-off. Facilities include indoor gyms on both campuses and the Fulton Park auditorium used as a community space when not in use. Distinctive features include field trips to France for fifth graders, a San Juan Islands trip for fourth graders, and after-school offerings in robotics, arts, music, soccer, and more, all within a bilingual, culture-aware environment.