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Languages

teacher in classroom

Connect across cultures. 

The study of language and culture has the power to develop responsible and committed global citizens. Today, it is more critical than ever before, as accelerating growth in technology is making the world ever smaller and enabling expanding connections between people and communities around the planet.

We work with students on the four basic language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. In the Branson language classroom, we communicate only in the target language, and whenever possible, we enhance this linguistically rich classroom environment with the immersive experiences of international travel and connection with local communities.

At the end of our program, you will feel confident communicating with native speakers both orally and in writing and reading literature and consuming content in the target language. You will also learn to appreciate a variety of cultural perspectives that will help you feel comfortable engaging in communities other than your own. 

If you are a native Spanish speaker, you might find yourself connecting with other Branson students who speak Spanish at home and deepening your language skills through cultural units based on arts, literature, history and politics of different Spanish speaking cultures.

Through the Branson language program, you will find yourself communicating meaningfully across different communities and cultures, and equipped to use this knowledge for positive change in the world.

Language Requirements

9 units (3 years) of one language

Students are welcome to sign up for any first-year language, or take a placement assessment to determine placement into a higher level. Students will complete three years of language study, including the successful completion of a level 3 course. (Applies beginning with the Class of 2027).

Meet Our Language Faculty

Arturo Acevedo

Arturo Acevedo

Spanish Teacher
Aaron Bardo

Aaron Bardo

Language Department Chair & Spanish Teacher (On Leave)
Donatella D'Aguanno

Donatella D'Aguanno

Spanish Teacher
Henri de Marcellus

Henri de Marcellus

Registrar / Latin Teacher / Class Dean
Jenny Diaz

Jenny Diaz

Spanish Teacher
Sergio Ovalles

Sergio Ovalles

Spanish Teacher
Sabrina Wilson

Sabrina Wilson

Spanish Teacher; Bilingual Family Liaison
Shujun Xiang

Shujun Xiang

Mandarin Chinese Teacher

Branson Curriculum Guide

students in class

Read the Curriculum Guide to see all the courses we offer in the 2024-25 academic year.

Latin

  • Latin IV Honors: Golden Age Poetry

Mandarin

  • Mandarin I
  • Mandarin II
  • Mandarin III
  • Mandarin IV Honors
  • Mandarin V

Spanish

  • Spanish I
  • Spanish II
  • Spanish III Honors
  • Spanish IV or V Honors Electives:
    • Spanish Through Cinema
    • The Monsters
    • Becoming Storytellers
    • The Oldest Colony–Exploring Puerto Rico's Complex Identity
    • Pachamama and the Wendigo
    • Rhythmic Wings

Spanish for Native and Heritage Speakers

  • Spanish for Native and Heritage Speakers
  • Spanish for Native and Heritage Speakers Advanced
  • Spanish for Native and Heritage Speakers III Honors
  • Spanish for Native and Heritage Speakers IV
  • Spanish IV or V Honors Electives (see above)

For a complete list of language courses and their descriptions, read the Curriculum Guide 2024-25 | Guía de Estudios 2024-25