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Vestavia Hills City Schools

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World Languages

VHCS World Languages

A circle of paper-cut-out people holding hands around the globe, symbolizing unity and connection.

 

Vestavia Hills City Schools offers a diverse selection of world language classes for students in grades 6-12. Middle school students (grades 6-8) can choose from French and German, building a strong foundation in language learning. In high school (grades 9-12), students have an even broader range of options, including Spanish, French, German, Latin, and American Sign Language. These courses help students develop communication skills, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of global perspectives.
 

  • Pizitz Middle School

    Kim Hunton, Spanish

    Katie Hayslip, Spanish

    Josh Wade, French 

    Lauren Davidson, German

     

    Liberty Park Middle School

    Jennie Borland, Spanish

    Chase Trautwein, German

    Courtney Capocci, French

  • Freshman Campus

    Spanish   

    Barrett Harris

    Claudia Sale-Casalino

    Dore Kesterson

     

    French

    Leah Dupre

     

    Latin

    Sara Means

     

    German

    Lauren Davidson

    Rachel Dodson

     

    Main Campus

    Spanish  

    Laura Holloway

    Kellie Kema

    Lisa McFadden, World Language Department Chair

     

    French

    Casey Harlan

     

    Latin 

    Sara Means

     

    German

    Tracey Patterson

    Rachel Dodson

     

    American Sign Language

    Ben Davis

    Eugenia O’Daniel

  • Criteria for Awarding the Seal

    Criteria for Awarding the Alabama Seal of Biliteracy and the Global Seal of Biliteracy 

    (See Slideshow for more information)

    • Alabama State Seal of Biliteracy
      • This is a new program offered by the state of Alabama.
      • To achieve this level of the Seal of Biliteracy you must meet the following requirements*:
        • 5 (intermediate-mid) on all sections of the STAMP Test (This will apply to MOST languages) or 3 on the AP Exam
        • I3 on the ALIRA Test (Latin only)
        • Intermediate Plus on the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASL only)
        • 18 on the English section of the ACT
        • 20 on the Reading section of the ACT
        • 4.8 on the WIDA (EL second language requirement)
    • Global Seal of Biliteracy
      • This credential is widely recognized internationally by both employers and universities.
      • Students may earn the Global Seal of Biliteracy at two proficiency levels: Functional and Working
      • To achieve the Global Seal of Biliteracy you must the following requirements within a 12 month period on all test components:
         

     

    *If you are testing in a language that is not covered by the tests listed above, email vhcssealofbiliteracy@vhcs.us to discuss your options. Please note that additional fees might be incurred. 

    MOER INFORMATION

  • At Vestavia Hills High School, we are proud to have 4 active local chapters of the following national world language honor societies:

    • French Honor Society - Société Honoraire de Français
    • German Honor Society - Delta Epsilon Phi 
    • National Junior Classical League (NJCL) Latin Honor Society
    • Spanish Honor Society - Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica
    • American Sign Language

    These honor societies aim to recognize and reward student achievement in his/her language study, to promote the study of the languages and cultures represented, and to encourage student leadership, character, and service in the school and community. Induction into these honor societies shows potential colleges and employers that students have challenged themselves and succeeded at a high level in his/her language studies.

    Students must meet minimum national requirements (in addition to any requirements set by local chapters). At Vestavia Hills High School, we begin inducting students in the fall of his/her level 3 year in the language of study. We believe that students should be pursuing study of a language at an honors level to truly demonstrate the scholarship and commitment necessary for induction.

    In order to be eligible for induction, students must meet the following requirements:

    • Students must attain a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.6 or higher in his/her language study. (for level 3 students: a minimum of 3 semester A’s and 1 semester B; for level 4 students: a minimum of 4 semester A’s and 2 semester B’s)
    • Students must not have any Class II offense or above on his/her record.
    • Students must show commitment to the study of the language by being in a level 3 or higher course.

I Am Vestavia Week

A red globe with a heart in the center, with the text 'I AM VESTAVIA WEEK' and 'VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS' below.

 

Join Vestavia Hills City Schools for performances, celebrations, and multicultural hospitality. Students and families plan to share their native culture in the parade of flags, performances, and the Festival Village.

The educational outreach extends beyond the cultural village, with 80 suitcase country lesson plans delivered to elementary schools. These interactive lessons provide students with a hands-on opportunity to explore different cultures, fostering curiosity and understanding.

I am Vestavia Week November 10-14, 2025

I am Vestavia Festival November 13th 

5:30 pm -7:30 pm Vestavia Hills Civic Center

HIGHLIGHT VIDEO

For more information, email Lenhartfc@vhcs.us 

Sign Up for the Cultural Fashion Show

 

Coming soon: Sign up for the festival village and Amazon wishlist