classes of outreach

Benefits of the earlier foreign language study include better pronunciation, greater cognitive development, and appreciation of other cultures. The College Entrance Examination Board reported that students who averaged 4 or more years of foreign language study scored higher on the verbal section of the SAT than those who had studied 4 or more years in any other subject area.

To promote earlier foreign language instruction, the Center sponsors and organizes classes at local schools, the Joplin Public Library and on the MSSU campus. Since its inception in 1996, the Center has served more than 2,000 students, who have taken classes in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, or Spanish.

Currently, the Center is offering classes at Carl Junction Intermediate School, St. Mary's Elementary School, St. Peter's Middle School and Stapleton Elementary School.

If you are interested in organizing foreign language classes in your school or community, contact the Center’s director, Leslie Parker.