World Languages
Our Middle Schools offer two foreign language introductory courses. Seventh grade students may enroll in Foreign Language Experience (FLEX), a cultural exploratory course designed to encourage young students to pursue language study. Eighth grade students may take a beginning Spanish course. Derby High School students have the opportunity to study Spanish and German in four different levels. Level 3 and 4 courses are Honors courses.
The district curriculum is based on the Kansas Model Standards for World Languages, adopted July 2008. These standards are aligned to the National Standards for Foreign Language Learning. The standards in the scope and sequence include the Five C's: Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities. Acquisition of a second language is a long-term process and may begin at any grade level. The use of the terms novice, intermediate, and advanced stages indicate general proficiency and performance levels. More information about World Languages can be found on the Kansas State Department of Education's (KSDE) World Language web page.
For World Language questions, please contact:
Keri Haberer
DHS World Language Department Chair
khaberer@usd260.com
(316) 788-8500
Kelly Kitterman
Instructional Coordinator
kkitterman@usd260.com
(316) 788-8434
Seal of Biliteracy
The Kansas Seal of Biliteracy is awarded by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and a local school district to recognize each student who has attained proficiency in English and one or more other world languages by the time of graduation. It is a statement of accomplishment that recognizes a student’s readiness for career and college, and for engagement as a global citizen.
During the 2022-2023 school year, thirteen Derby High School students earned the Kansas State Seal of Biliteracy. Twelve students earned the Seal at the Silver Level. One student not only earned the Seal at the Gold Level but has earned it in three languages.