Dual language program kicks off after COVID-19 delay COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

By Tyler Charpentier Contributing Writer

HUDSON – Farley Elementary School’s dual language program offers students the ability to learn Portuguese, beginning from a kindergarten level.

Due to COVID-19 related delays, the program was not able to begin until 2021 but it has now gained rapid success within the Hudson community.

“Last year we had forty spots open for this program and still have a wait list of over twenty kids,” Director of World Language Ana Pimentel said.

Students will begin their school day in Portuguese class where they learn Portuguese literacy along with related content from social studies or science.

This includes learning not only the language, but also cultural aspects of Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking countries. For example, some sections of the curriculum teach students about specific plants and animals that are native to Portugal.

While students are in their dual language class, they are encouraged to only speak in Portuguese, this includes when they speak to their teacher and peers.

However, Farley’s program provides knowledge beyond the walls of the classroom.

“There are so many benefits, for example, having awareness of other languages and cultures, building self-identity