World Language
General Information
Introduction
In the Tenafly Public Schools, there are a variety of world languages offered for study, with multiple entry points. The goal of the World Language program is for students to learn a new world language and to understand the products, practices, and perspectives of a new culture. At the elementary level, students study Spanish in Kindergarten through grade 5. Upon entering 6th grade at Tenafly Middle School, students have the option to continue their study of Spanish or begin their study of Mandarin Chinese or French for all three years of middle school. At Tenafly High School, students can opt to continue their language of study from TMS or they can begin their study of Italian, French, Spanish, or Mandarin Chinese. Of the four World Languages offered at THS, students can pursue each language of study through the Advanced Placement level.
Students at THS choose to study French, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, and/or Spanish. All students are encouraged to reach their highest proficiency in their language of study as they aim to understand global cultures.​
According to New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standard for World Languages - All students will be able to use a world language in addition to English to engage in meaningful conversation, to understand and interpret spoken and written language, and to present information, concepts, and ideas, while also gaining an understanding of the perspectives of other cultures. Through language study, they will make connections with other content areas, compare the language and culture studied with their own, and participate in home and global communities.
Staff
Links & Resources
Grade Level Information
Elementary
Elementary
Students in grades K-5 in Tenafly elementary schools have the opportunity to study Spanish. Starting language education early helps build a strong foundation in both language skills and cultural understanding. By achieving a novice proficiency level aligned with New Jersey State Standards, these students are gaining valuable tools for communication and preparing for a culturally diverse world. Early exposure to language and culture is essential for fostering global citizens who are adaptable and open-minded.
TPS World Language Department Staff
K-12 Comprehensive Health and Physical Education, English Language Learners, & World Languages Supervisor - Dr. Elizabeth Giblin
Elementary Schools
TMS
THS
- Nazife Bilali
- Karen Drake
- Clarisa Lopez Lescano
- Vanessa Monell
- Christine Osborn
- Beatriz Peláez-Martínez
- Rosinda Ribau
- Chia Cheng Sung
- Michael Vicchio
- Megan Williams
THS ML
Middle School
Middle School World Language
At Tenafly Middle School, students can build on their elementary Spanish education or choose to explore a new language by studying French or Mandarin Chinese. Committing to one language for all three years of middle school (grades 6-8), students immerse themselves in their chosen language and culture. Those continuing with Spanish have the opportunity to achieve novice-high proficiency, while students who opt for French or Mandarin Chinese can reach a novice-mid proficiency level. This focused language study not only strengthens communication skills but also deepens students’ cultural awareness, preparing them for an increasingly interconnected world.
Middle School Program of Studies
2024-2025 (as of 2/2024)
High School
High School World Language
At Tenafly High School, students have the option to continue studying the language they began in middle school, advancing to Level 2 or 2 Honors, or to start a new language. The language offerings include French, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish. To meet graduation requirements, students must complete at least two consecutive years of study in the same world language. Courses are aligned with New Jersey State Standards and are designed to elevate students' language proficiency. Each language program also provides the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement (AP) Language and Culture course, which allows students to pursue higher-level mastery. Many Tenafly High School students achieve the prestigious New Jersey Seal of Biliteracy, demonstrating their advanced proficiency in a language other than English and highlighting their commitment to global citizenship.