International Experiences
World Languages
We punch well above our weight when it comes to world languages.
Given our classical background and international focus, World Languages begin in Kindergarten. Two of the three Romance languages taught at Thornton-Donovan (Spanish, Italian, French) are part of the set curriculum in Lower and Middle School. Lower School World Languages often focus on general sounds, words, phrases, and some grammar. Middle School World Languages involve more grammar.
At the Upper School Level (typically open to students beginning in Grade 8), options for World Languages also include Classical (Latin, Greek) and Eurasian (Russian, Japanese). Languages are taught based on experience with the language rather than grade level. In addition to grammar and conversation, they may also begin to open up to learning about culture. Student Exchanges are a great way to enhance skills.
International Experiences
At Thornton-Donovan, aside from any intercultural exchange happening at school daily, thanks to the diverse backgrounds of our students and families, there are three ways for students to actually "go international" and experience the world.
Travel Study
The school has traveled for over five decades, and travel study has been the foundation of our thematic education since the 1990s. Travel Study is typically a two-week spring trip related to the year's theme. Travel Study is open to all: students, parents, family and friends, alumni, etc. Students as young as First Grade have traveled with parents or grandparents. One excellent explorer is given the Magellan Award each year at Graduation.
Student Exchange Programs
Typically from 8-14 days, students from one of our sister schools will visit us, hosted by families like yourselves here in New York. Likewise, we visit sister schools and are hosted by families abroad. Student exchange programs allow for a more practical exchange level and can be a great way to practice one of the many languages we teach.
Sister School Relationships
We are able to send our students to one of our sister schools for a month or longer on a case-by-case basis. This is a more intense version of Student Exchange.
Exchange Programs List
We have recently participated in an exchange of one form or another with schools in the following countries.
Argentina (La Plata)
Guatemala (Guatemala City)
Japan (Sera, Hiroshima)
Italy (Arezzo, Tuscany)
Poland (Kraków)