The Wantagh School District shined a spotlight on its world language program, which includes French, Italian and Spanish, during National Foreign Language Week from March 2-6. Teachers at the middle school and high school planned special activities that celebrated language and culture. 

Students in French Level 3, 4 and 5 classes at Wantagh High School had a feast in the library to eat crepes, a well-known French delicacy. Students made the batter from scratch and cooked it, then cut up and added fruit. They also enjoyed sipping on hot chocolate. Music from iconic French singer Edith Piaf played in the background. Students practiced their French expressions related to food and service. 

“It was great because it made us feel like a French community,” sophomore Laney Gonzalez said. 

“Having events like this brings us closer to the French culture that we learn about,” added junior Dylan Loveland. 

Seventh graders in Level 1 Italian classes at the middle school took part in an art share-out. Teacher Lisa Gimeli digitally shared several pictures of famous pieces by Italian artists. In the language, students had to write a few sentences about the work. 

Wantagh High School world language students completed a recipe activity in which they identified common misunderstandings in their respective languages. Italian Club students visited Forest Lake Elementary School to highlight the importance of learning world languages. The week also included the World Language Honor Society induction ceremony.

“Each year, the World Language teachers across the Wantagh School District celebrate National Foreign Language Week with their classes to highlight the connections between culture and language,” said Director of Humanities Julie Rosslee. “The teachers hope to cultivate cultural understanding and global awareness by immersing students in activities that reflect the lifestyles and traditions of the cultures associated with their target languages.”