Welcome back to our Spotlight on Schools series, where local parents shares their good news stories about their experience with their elementary school in Prince George’s County. In this Spotlight, read all about Dora Kennedy French Immersion School in Greenbelt, Maryland from the perspective of one proud momma, Sheila T!
By: Sheila T.
Mom to a Sixth-grader
I’ve been a Dora Kennedy French Immersion (DKFI) parent since my son was a kindergartner. I’ve always believed bi-lingualism to be big advantage in life, and when we had the chance to register for the lottery to have him attend an immersion program, we excitedly took it. The school’s very high test scores were certainly impressive and a draw as well.
DKFI has been a great fit for us. The teachers are from all over the world, the student body is diverse, and the faculty and staff “get” my son. They are an enthusiastic bunch who really set a positive tone for learning and fun. Bingo night is not to be missed, movie nights are loads of fun, and the yearly talent show is a huge highlight of the year. My son is in the show on his violin or singing every year. Last year he played the Star Wars theme dressed as Luke Skywalker; Mr. Cunningham – who runs the show – helped him with a dramatic entrance that brought down the house! Great memories!!
A few years back, when we were offered a spot at the gifted school, we couldn’t find a reason to make the switch. My son has participated in a pull out gifted program at DKFI. We feel that this school is something of a gifted program intrinsically. Test scores are high in math and reading, and the students learn grammar in French and English. Russian is introduced in sixth grade as their foreign language.
DKFI organizes trips to French speaking areas to help the students really use their language skills in the real world. My son still talks about the bus trip to Montreal. This year, we are on an extended trip, living in a medieval village in southern France. This is an independent trip I arranged, and he is attending a French public school. His fluency allowed a smooth transition. We will return to DKFI after a rich cultural experience!
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| Students excitedly waiting to board the bus to Montreal! |
Curious about DKFI? Check out their next Open House, 4/26/17, 10-11am. Confirm here.
Grades K – 8
Like what you’ve read? Check out these additional schools featured in our Spotlight on Schools Series!
Greenbelt Elementary School
Dora Kennedy French Immersion School
University Park Elementary School
Riverdale Elementary School
Gladys Noon Spellman Elementary School
Robert Goddard Montessori School
Mt. Rainier Elementary School
Holy Redeemer School
Want to write and share a little bit about your local Prince George’s County school? Please do! Contact me at Sarah@routeonefun.com
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