Thematic Free Range Learning

To whom it may concern,

It is a pleasure to write this letter recommending the SFS elementary language program. The SFS program, though not a comprehensive foreign language program, provides elementary students with an exposure to common terms in many languages. The program can be taught by teachers who do not speak the languages. The format of the program allows teachers to use flexible schedules and multiple stategies to teach the content.

As the former assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for Clio Area Schools, I proposed this program to our teachers and superintendent. Teachers who saw a demonstration of the program were immediately excited about the possibilities for use. Their suggestions included; incorporating the language units into social studies classes, using the program as a transition activity, providing instruction after school in our Bridges programs, using the program to interact with other area schools through elementary GenNet labs and using the language program as a base for learning about the history and culture of the countries that speak each language. Clio Area Schools purchased this program in Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Korean and French for use in all of our elementary schools in the fall of 2008.

I believe the SFS programs provide school districts with a cost-effective method for providing much needed exposure to foreign languages at the elementary level. I look forward to hearing about the creative lession Clio teachers develop using the SFS program.

Sincerely

Vickie Luoma
Superintendent
Lakeville Community Schools