World Languages

Curriculum Night 2026 Video

Welcome to the World Language Program at TJHSST!

At TJHSST, our dynamic immersion programs for the modern spoken languages (Chinese, French, German, and Spanish) and a classic Latin program promote engaging, vibrant, student-centered classes that provide many opportunities for students to become proficient in their chosen language(s) and culture(s) on the path to becoming global citizens. Three years of study in the same language meets the graduation requirement at TJHSST. Two years of two different languages does not meet the TJ graduation requirement. You have to take three years of the same language (3 credits). Listed below are some of the many opportunities available for students studying a world language.

Honor Societies
We hope to see you celebrating the Chinese New Year, making pancakes to celebrate La Chandeleur in French, gingerbread house competitions can be found in the German Room while Saturnalia is being celebrated in Latin as you dance away the night at Bulería sponsored by our Spanish program.

National/International Exams/Competitions
Students studying French, German, Latin, and Spanish participate in National Exams. Students learning Chinese and Latin compete in National Essay Contests. Students in German and Latin frequently represent the United States and Virginia in international and state competitions.

Exchange Programs and TravelTJHSST has a long history of exchange programs with current partner schools in France and Germany. Participating students have life changing experiences when they host a student from one of our partner schools. Lifelong friends are made during your unique experience living in another country and going to school. Trips to Spanish speaking countries and Italy or other Roman sites take place during Spring break.

Summer ProgramsEach year, TJHSST students vie for one of the many coveted spots in Virginia’s summer Governor's World Language Academies available to students studying French, German, Latin, and Spanish. Students studying Chinese can apply for a full scholarship in the competitive National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) Program. The NSLI-Y scholarship provides all-expense paid 6 weeks of a homestay-study program in China.

TJHSST students often say that learning a language is one of the most fun and memorable experiences of their four years at TJHSST. We encourage you to reach out to any of the language teachers if you would like more information.