FLES(Foreign Language In Elementary School) Q:What is FLES and how will it be implemented? A: FLES is an acronym that stands for Foreign Language in the Elementary School. It is an approach to language learning that allows students to develop basic communicative skills in a language while reinforcing and enriching content in other disciplines. Q: Why FLES A:The FLES model provides all students in an elementary school with language learning opportunities. Research studies have indicated that the early study of a second language results in cognitive benefits, gains in academic achievement, and increases in self-esteem, creativity, and positive attitudes toward diversity. Q: What does ABES FLES Look Like? A: The ABES FLES model develops students' language proficiency by providing language instruction that supports the concepts taught in the subject areas at the respective grade level. Generally, programs have minutes of instruction two times a week by a Mandarin Speaking Instructor. ABES FLES model is based on the research that shows that students are not only able to learn but are also highly engaged in learning content through the target language. In addition, the culture of the target language is integrated into instruction. Q. Will the current teachers remain? A: Yes. The current teachers will remain and Mandarin teachers will be added to the program. The current teachers, and administrative team will be involved in potential teacher interview process.

FLES Q: What are the ABES FLES Program goals? To support and enhance academic content area instruction To develop increased cognitive skills To enhance reading development in both English and the target language To promote global awareness and cross-cultural understanding To develop increased functional proficiency in all aspects of the language with each year of study To meet district, state and national foreign language standards To have fun while appreciating our diverse community.

How can I help my child learn the language if I don’t speak it? Students will be instructed about their homework and should be able to complete assignments independently. There will be online resources available if parents want to be involved. What are the qualifications of the Mandarin teachers? A Mandarin teacher in CA public elementary school is required to have the California Multiple Subject Credential with a Mandarin BCLAD (Bilingual Cross-cultural, Language, and Academic Development) Will the program be open to students outside of PUSD? How will placement into the program be handled? Priority will be given to students in the Adobe Bluffs neighborhood boundary first. The next priority will be given to other PUSD boundary neighborhoods. The last placement will be considered for students outside of PUSD. All placements are pending available space.

Faq Will the program be open to students outside of PUSD? How will placement into the program be handled? Priority will be given to students in the Adobe Bluffs neighborhood boundary first. The next priority will be given to other PUSD boundary neighborhoods. The last placement will be considered for students outside of PUSD. All placements are pending available space.

Budget Q:Will the Foundation funded programs be changed? Will the Mandarin program partially funded by Foundation? A: No. Current Foundation funded programs will be funded as always. District will fund general needs such as an instructor and curriculum/instructional materials.

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