Languages

Kelli Van Vleet Pleskac, Department Chair
email | 425-868-6191, ext. 830
download: languages department highlights pdf

The Modern and Classical Languages Department stresses a firm foundation of reading, writing, conversation and grammar in French, Spanish, Latin, Mandarin Chinese and/or Japanese. Besides having 5 languages from which to choose, students have the opportunity to study up to 5 full years in one language. This variety accommodates most learning styles and preferences. Overlake also offers AP Spanish and French Literature electives which are a rarity in standard Upper School curriculum.

While teachers prepare students for national exams and build speaking and listening proficiency, they also teach students about the countries' cultures, their commonalities and differences.

Overlake’s multilingual faculty emphasizes an immersed, communicative approach to learning languages, in an open and respectful environment. We aim to awaken students' curiosity about themselves and other cultures. And, as many of the teachers are native speakers, they offer unique perspectives and understanding of cultural idiosyncrasies.

Learn more about Overlake's Languages program in the department highlights and the curriculum map.

“My favorite thing about Overlake is that there are a variety of languages to choose from.”
      —7th grade



Inspire excellence.       Develop intellectual curiosity.       Teach responsibility.       Embrace diversity.       Foster a compassionate community.