Français
Since October 6, the Saint-B’Art association has resumed its free French as a foreign language classes at Mireille Choisy Middle School. It’s a weekly gathering focused on learning, but also on building connections and celebrating diversity.
The students come from Brazil, Portugal, the United States, Spain, Venezuela, Italy, the Dominican Republic, Germany, and even England. As is the case every year, many learners eager to improve their French are taking advantage of the free classes offered by the Saint-B’Art association. Every Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., about thirty people gather at the middle school to improve their French. “They mingle and make these classes a true reflection of Saint Barthélemy’s international character,” says Leïla Nazzal of the Saint-B’Art association. “Once again this year, the United States is particularly well-represented,” she continues. “This trend has been consistent for the past three years.” And the numbers are expected to grow even further, as some residents have not yet returned to the island and new registrations are anticipated.
Three Volunteer Instructors
To meet the various needs, participants are divided into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Three volunteer teachers lead the classes: Julie Néron-Bancel, a French teacher who recently joined the middle school; Leïla Nazzal, a teacher of Spanish and French as a foreign language, who coordinates this initiative within the Saint B’Art association (of which she is also vice president); and Amandine Laplace.
“Beyond language learning, these classes are also a special opportunity to interact, gain a better understanding of local life, and build connections,” emphasizes Leïla Nazzal. The association carries out this mission with the steadfast support of Mireille Choisy Middle School, a partner of Saint-B’Art since 2002.
The classes are free and open to anyone wishing to learn or improve their French. Learners are asked only to pay an annual membership fee of 50 euros.
