Applying to FASPS

The French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS) is Washington State's only bilingual school that offers a comprehensive education from TYPK (18 months) through Grade 8. FASPS combines the French and American curriculums, providing students with high proficiency in both languages through immersive, real-world instruction from an early age.

At FASPS, we cultivate curious, confident, and compassionate global citizens through our unique harmonized bilingual program. Our immersive French and American curriculum fosters academic excellence, critical thinking, and cultural agility, preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world. With small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a vibrant multicultural community, FASPS offers an enriching environment where students grow intellectually and personally. Whether through rigorous academics, arts, or global perspectives, we empower each child to reach their fullest potential. Join us to discover an education that opens doors—both locally and globally. Apply today and become part of our extraordinary learning journey!

Benefits of a Bilingual Education

Bilingualism offers children remarkable cognitive, academic, and social advantages. Research shows that learning two languages enhances memory, problem-solving skills, and attention span, as the brain constantly navigates between linguistic systems. Bilingual children often demonstrate greater mental flexibility and creativity. Beyond cognitive benefits, bilingualism fosters cultural awareness, empathy, and the ability to connect with diverse communities. It also strengthens future academic and career opportunities in an increasingly globalized world. By embracing bilingualism, children gain not just language skills, but a broader perspective and lifelong tools for success.

Why French?

List of 6 items.

  • A Global Language

    Spoken by over 300 million people worldwide, French connects your child to a vast international community across five continents.

  • A Language of Influence

    As the world's 5th most spoken language and 2nd most learned language, French offers unparalleled global relevance.

  • Official Language of 29 Countries

    More countries claim French as an official language than any other except English—a testament to its enduring diplomatic and cultural importance.

  • The Hidden Key to English

    With 30% of English words deriving from French, learning it strengthens vocabulary and language arts skills in both languages.

  • The Language of Cultural Excellence

    Home to more Nobel Literature laureates than any other nation, France's literary tradition is unmatched—giving students access to a world-class cultural heritage.

  • The Language of Global Affairs

    French remains essential in international diplomacy, business, and organizations like the United Nations and the European Union.

List of 6 frequently asked questions.

  • Is FASPS for French families only?

    Not at all! There are over 60 nationalities represented at FASPS, and approximately 40 languages.

  • Is the curriculum taught in French only?

    Initially, we focus on French language acquisition with 95% of the program conducted in French. As students progress through the years, we increase the percentage of English instruction. In Kindergarten, it's a 75/25 French to English split. In 5th grade, at the end of elementary school, the split is 60/40, and in middle school instruction is evenly divided between French and English. This structure allows students to develop fluency in both languages by the age of five.

  • We do not speak French. How can I help my child with homework?

    Students will never be required to learn a new skill or lesson at home. Thus, our parents who do not speak French or English can still help their children. Parents are given access to additional resources for support at home, such as audio and visual recordings of French songs, stories, and poems.
    We also offer after-school homework help with our native French-speaking staff.

  • How do I know what my child is studying at school?

    Teachers communicate with parents through the Toddle app, posting pictures, sending messages, and recording songs or stories to listen to at home. Fall Info Nights take place during the first month of school and provide an opportunity for parents to gain firsthand insight into their children's education. Parents are welcome to reach out to their children's teachers at any time via email.

  • How long is the school day?

    TYPK–PK (Preschool): 8:45 AM–3:00 PM
    Kindergarten–Grade 5 (Elementary School): 8:30 AM–3:15 PM
    Grades 6–8 (Middle School): 8:10 AM–3:45 PM
    Before-school care is available as early as 7:30 AM and after-school care as late as 6:00 PM.

  • What is FASPS's policy regarding discipline in the classroom?

    Positive discipline is a respectful and nurturing approach that teaches children self-control, responsibility, and problem-solving through guidance and encouragement. It focuses on connection before correction to help children learn from mistakes. It helps model respect, empathy, and accountability.

Book a Call!

Discover FASPS by signing up for a 15-minute video call with our Admissions team (either Pénélope Souquet or Lia Corrado)! Ask all your questions and learn more about our harmonized bilingual program. We look forward to chatting with you soon!

Admissions Team

List of 1 members.

  • Photo of Pénélope Souquet

    Pénélope Souquet 

    Director of Enrollment Management
    Phone (206) 275-3533, Ext. 275
 
MERCER ISLAND
(Preschool, Elementary, Middle School)
3795 East Mercer Way
Mercer Island, WA 98040
(206) 275-3533
info@fasps.org
SEATTLE – CAPITOL HILL
(Preschool Campus)
1823 East Madison Street
Seattle, WA 98122
(206) 644-8348
info@fasps.org
Non-Discrimination Policy

The French American School of Puget Sound does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, financial aid programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs. This policy applies to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities, including applications and admissions, generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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