"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart."
– Nelson Mandela
The World Languages Department at BHS is dedicated to fostering linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding in alignment with the instructional vision of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Our mission is to equip students with the communication skills and cultural competencies necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. We believe that language learning is not just about mastering vocabulary and grammar; it is about opening doors to diverse cultures and perspectives that enrich our students' lives and empower them to engage meaningfully with others.
Our department offers a wide range of courses in Chinese, French, Latin, Portuguese, and Spanish, encouraging students to become proficient speakers and informed global citizens. Through immersive experiences, authentic resources, and interactive learning environments, students develop not only their language skills but also their ability to appreciate and respect cultural diversity. We aim to inspire a lifelong passion for languages and an understanding of the importance of cross-cultural communication in today’s global society.
To graduate, all students must earn at least two credits in the same World Language, which can be fulfilled by any of the languages offered: Chinese, French, Latin, Portuguese, or Spanish. We also provide dual enrollment courses in certain languages, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. Advanced Placement language courses are available as well, further enhancing students' opportunities for academic advancement. Our curriculum is designed to align with the Massachusetts Framework for World Languages, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future academic and professional pursuits in a multilingual world.
