It is the philosophy of the Modern and Classical Language Department that all students can and should learn another language beyond their native tongue. 

All students in grades six, seven, and eight take language classes which focus on providing students with a strong foundation in their language studies.  In the Upper School, students must complete a minimum of two courses in the same language, but most continue their language studies much further.  Through a combination of challenge and support, the MCL faculty strive to instill in their students a passion for other languages and cultures and to provide them with the skills necessary for successful communication.

In all three languages, students are encouraged to strive for mastery, to achieve solid proficiency at all levels, to understand the process of learning a new language, and to apply language skills in work, travel, and advanced study beyond NYA.  The study of varied peoples, civilizations, works of art, and literature is an integral part of the language program.  The modern language courses focus on the skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension and encourage increased aural comprehension and oral proficiency.  Latin courses emphasize utilizing translation as a means of communication and moving beyond mere translation to thorough comprehension and analysis.  The MCL Department also highly encourages travel and immersion experiences through school trips, summer programs, and study abroad opportunities.  The study of language serves to broaden the students’ horizons and to open them up to the many cultures of the world.

Beginning in the sixth grade, students in Classical Foundations start the process of how to learn another language.  Using Latin as a tool, the students study the basic structure of language, examine the connections between different languages, and become familiar with the relationship between language and culture.  For seventh and eighth grade, students choose to study French, Spanish, or Latin, completing level one of the language program.  The Middle School language classes emphasize active learning with activities and assessments tailored to the needs of students at this age level.  The somewhat slower pace allows students to best utilize extensive repetition and practice in working towards mastery.  In the Upper School, students may study French, Spanish, or Latin through level 5, Advanced Placement courses.  Though these courses can be quite rigorous, the language teachers work closely with students, providing support and adjusting their methods to appeal to a variety of learning styles.  By graduation, advanced language students have achieved a high degree of fluency and are well prepared to tackle the challenges of upper level language courses in college.