College Connections and International Schools

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Global education is a priority in many countries. Their initiatives tend to converge on a few fundamental orientations. Several view the world as one system—human life as shaped by a history of global interdependence. Others highlight a commitment to the idea that there are basic human rights, including social and economic equality as well as basic freedoms. Most emphasize a commitment to cultural diversity and the importance of intercultural understanding and acceptance of differences of opinion and a few point to environmental awareness and planetary sustainability.

We want each Philadelphian to be a global citizen who feels comfortable in any situation they are presented with, regardless of where they may be. If we are doing our jobs correctly, our students will learn the skills they need to be successful in college and in their careers. By forming better global citizens, we are trying to create a ripple effect to benefit others outside of our Philadelphia school walls.

The Greater Philadelphia Region has much to offer in the area of K-12 education and boasts a wide range of universities and colleges. Check out the following list of internationally-focused schools in our region.

K-12 international schools

Adath Jeshurun Preschool and Infant Center, Elkins Park, PA (Hebrew)
Immersion program for preschool children


Bilingual Butterflies, Philadelphia (Spanish)
After-school program and Spanish summer camps, focuses on immersing children ages 3 and up
Consilio (Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations of Philadelphia), Philadelphia (Spanish)

kids multicultural

 

After-school programs


Do-Re-Mi, Livingston, NJ (Russian)
Russian Language Development program for toddlers


Esperanza Academy Public Charter High School, Philadelphia (Spanish)
Prepares young adults to use English, Spanish, and technology


French International School of Philadelphia, Bala Cynwyd (French)
Bilingual curriculum in French and in English for Pre-K through 8th grade


Immanuel German School, Huntingdon Valley, PA (German)
German classes for children from Pre-K to grade 6


Main Line Chinese Culture Center, Bryn Mawr (Mandarin, Chinese)
Weekend school classes


Mi Casita Preschool, Philadelphia, PA (Spanish)
Offers a total Spanish immersion learning environment for children aged 1-5


Petite École Bilingue Preschool, Philadelphia (French)
French language and culture for preschool children


Scuola Marco Polo, Roxborough (Italian)


Spanish Workshop for Children, Philadelphia, Bryn Mawr, and Blue Bell, PA (Spanish)
Spanish immersion program for toddlers to 10-year-olds as well as summer camps


St. Peter's School, Philadelphia (French)
French language classes introduced in preschool and taught through 8th grade


Vamonos Childcare Services, Horsham and Warminster, PA (Spanish)
Spanish Immersion for preschool children and before-/after-school care for Kindergarten and up

international students

 

International colleges and university programs

Berlitz Philadelphia Learning Center, Philadelphia (French, Italian, Spanish, German, ESL, and more)
Programs for adults and children as well as for government employees, executives and other busy professionals in insurance and finance, life sciences, telecommunications and other industries. Language assessment and testing services are also offered. 


The Philadelphia School of Languages, Philadelphia (Spanish classes, ESL classes, and more)
Offers English and foreign languages classes, as well as professional translation services, tutoring, and guidance


Spanish Language School, Philadelphia (Spanish)
Group, private, or semi-private classes


UPENN College of Liberal and Professional Studies Post-Baccalaureate Studies, Philadelphia (Multiple languages offered)
For those who already have a Bachelor degree

 

International continuing education programs

The German Society of Pennsylvania, evening adult classes, Philadelphia (German)

GPA also works closely and relies on positive relationships with 14 local universities committed to World Heritage. The bonds form benefit both parties and help launch successful careers for the many students who intern or work at GPA.

Local universities like Temple, UPenn, Villanova, Saint Joseph's, and Drexel have generously supported GPA programming and provided event space. Beyond that, our interns and many staff members come from these great institutions. Many regard their GPA experience as a perfect add-on to their college experience, helping them develop real-world communication and work skills.

The “Eds” of the “Eds and Meds” sector are also essential participants in GPA projects. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) mural series is a good example. Universities been both active sponsors and hosts for murals in addition to helping find talented local artists and community grantees.

GPA Member Universities:

  • Drexel University
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • Temple University
  • Saint Joseph's University
  • Widener University
  • Neumann University
  • Thomas Jefferson University
  • Villanova University