Academics
Whether you’re a current FAIS family or preparing for the STAMP and DELF/DALF exams, we hope this page provides you with the information you need – from our language immersion and IB program to our advanced French courses for our graduates and the broader Portland community.
Language Immersion
Language immersion is more than learning another language. FAIS uses language as a lens to help students understand other cultures, think with a global perspective, and navigate the broader world around us.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB is a worldwide network of schools committed to creating a better and more peaceful world by developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people. FAIS uses the IB as a framework for delivering our French-based curriculum in a language immersion setting.
Curriculum
FAIS uses the five pillars of the French curriculum as the foundation for learning in the Lower School. We then build upon it with more collaborative and transdisciplinary learning in middle school to deliver one core curriculum in five different languages.
High School French Program
This off-campus, advanced French immersion-based program is held near Lincoln High School three mornings per week (during Lincoln High School’s first period). It is intended for 9th and 10th grade students in preparation for the STAMP test (to obtain high school French language credit).
After-School Advanced Language French Classes
These on-campus, after school courses are open to FAIS graduates, high school students, and adults to prepare for the DELF/DALF exams.
DELF/DALF Exams
Delivered and recognized by the French Ministry of Education, The DELF (Diplôme d’Etudes de Langue Française) and DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) take the place of an exam for entrance to a French University, if chosen. FAIS is one of the few centers in the U.S. authorized to administer the exams.