Global Studies & World Languages Academy

The Global Studies and World Languages Academy prepares students for world citizenship by providing opportunities to develop the intellectual skills needed to make global connections among all disciplines. The Academy offers rigorous academic curricula with geography integrated into the subject matter of every course. Three major themes are embedded: global issues, global systems and global cultures. The study of two world languages is required for all Academy students. Students choose from eight language offerings:

Students will have the opportunity to participte in international exchange programs and travel tours.

The Academy prepares students for post-secondary education and provides opportunities to investigate international job market trends and explore international careers. Career success in fields such as business, government, banking and media and communications will require global knowledge and proficiency in world languages. Students have the opportunity to experience first-hand these careers through job shadowing and internships and students may tailor their program of study to earn either a Standard or Advanced Studies diploma.

A long-term project with a culminating presentation in the student's senior year will feature an in-depth study of a global culture and a global issue of concern. Components of the project will include community service, cultural investigation and the development of a portfolio. Educational travel and internships will offer research opportunities that will cultivate a deeper understanding of selected global issues.

The Global Studies and World Languages Academy at Tallwood High School prepares students to engage in and contribute to the world community through multilingual communication and multicultural perspectives. This world-class education will create the global citizens of tomorrow.

• Rigorous coursework with honors and AP level courses in Social Studies, English, and more.
• Eight world languages to choose from: Spanish, French, German, Latin, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, and Arabic. Students must take 4 years of one language and two years of another at a minimum.
• Unique seminar courses at each grade level offer students opportunities to research and reflect on global topics of their choice, and develop career readiness skills for any field. These courses help students identify a pathway for elective courses and their senior project. Pathways include: Diplomacy & Politics, Language & Linguistics, STEM, Activism, Art & Music, Business, Education, History & Culture, and Media & Communication
• In the senior level seminar course students conduct an in-depth study of a global issue or culture, take action in the community, and defend their work through a professional presentation.
• This is a sample four-year plan for a student with Algebra I, Earth Science, & French I in middle school:
  • 9th – AP Human Geography, World Literature I, Geometry, Global Ecology(Bio), PE I, French II, Study Block (or elective of choice) and Global Citizenship Seminar
  • 10th – AP World History, World Literature II, Algebra II/Trig, Chemistry, PE II, French III, Economics & Personal Finance, and Global Perspectives Seminar
  • 11th – AP US History, AP Language and Composition, Math Analysis, AP Environmental Science, French IV, Arabic I, Leadership in a Global Society, and Global Systems Seminar
  • 12th – AP US Government, Dual Enrollment English, AP Statistics, Art Foundations, AP Comparative Politics, AP French, Arabic II, and Global Connections Seminar

• Students are required to engage in and log 140 community service hours and 24 cultural events throughout their four years in the program.
• Opportunities are available for all students to engage locally, nationally, and globally. The GSWLA has partner schools in seven countries and global partner organizations that develop and fund international learning opportunities for students. Roughly 100 GSWLA students travel internationally each year.

• Globalization is driving a high demand for a globally competent and competitive workforce.
• Global citizens understand how to engage with others across cultural divides in our shrinking world.
• Global citizens are prepared to solve the problems of the 21st Century and beyond.

• Taking world languages and other high school credit courses in middle school enables you to take more electives and languages at the GSWLA, but it is not necessary for acceptance.
• Engaging in service and cultural activities throughout your community will help you develop an appreciation for global citizenship and provide opportunities to discover your area of passion.

Please visit the VBCPS Academies & Advanced Programs page for more information about the application process.