World Languages
Welcome
Washington County Public Schools celebrates the power of language to connect people, open doors, and build understanding across cultures. Our World Languages program inspires students to become confident communicators, curious global citizens, and lifelong learners who value diverse perspectives.
Why Learn a World Language
Learning another language broadens the mind and opens up new opportunities. Students develop skills that enhance problem-solving, creativity, and memory while deepening their cultural understanding. Research indicates that students who study languages tend to perform better in other academic subjects and are better prepared for college, careers, and participation in a global society.
American Council for the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Research Findings
Our Programs
WCPS offers a variety of language learning opportunities beginning in middle school and continuing through advanced high school courses. Students can pursue programs in French, German, Japanese, Latin, and Spanish. Heritage speakers are encouraged to continue developing their language skills to achieve formal recognition and college credit.
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
WCPS partners with Hagerstown Community College to offer Dual Enrollment courses in French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. Students enrolled in Level 4 or International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 1 language courses at WCPS may also earn college credit by taking HCC 201 and 202 courses at no additional cost. This collaboration allows students to earn both high school and college credit while strengthening their language proficiency and preparing them for advanced study after graduation.
The Maryland Seal of Biliteracy
WCPS is proud to have been the first school district in Maryland to award the Maryland Seal of Biliteracy. This prestigious recognition honors students who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and at least one other language.
Students can earn the Seal by achieving qualifying scores on approved language assessments during their high school years. The Seal of Biliteracy is placed on their high school diploma and recognized by colleges and employers as a mark of intermediate-high proficiency in two languages.
Learn More at the Maryland State Department of Education Seal of Biliteracy Website
Our Approach
Instruction is guided by the ACTFL World Readiness Standards for Learning Languages and is aligned with the Maryland State Standards. Students build proficiency by communicating in meaningful ways through the three modes of communication:
Interpretive
Understanding what they read, hear, or view
Interpersonal
Engaging in conversations and interactions
Presentational
Sharing ideas through speaking and writing
Lessons emphasize real-world communication, authentic cultural resources, and collaboration.
Opportunities to Shine
Students in WCPS have many ways to celebrate their language learning, including language honor societies, cultural clubs, and the Seal of Biliteracy. We proudly recognize these achievements and the dedication they represent.
Family and Community Connections
Families play an essential role in encouraging and supporting language learning. WCPS partners with local and global organizations to offer cultural events, guest speakers, and international celebrations that bring communities together and enrich students’ learning experiences.
Contact Us
We welcome your questions and interest in our World Languages program.
Supervisor of Multilingual Learning and World Languages
Paula Moore
moorepau@wcps.k12.md.us
301-766-2977
Administrative Assistant
Xenia (Carmen) Diaz
diazxen@wcps.k12.md.us
301-766-2923