The Chattanooga School of Language celebrated its one-year anniversary in July and will open its doors to its new location for the fall term of classes beginning Aug. 13.
The city’s only international language school offers private, semi-private and group classes in eight different languages, including German, French, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, Arabic, sign language and English as a Second Language.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with our first year,” said owner Laurie Stevens. “We have learned so much about what Chattanooga wants, in terms of languages offered for kids and adults, and how the school can most effectively meet those needs.”
Since its formation in the summer of 2011, CSL has held classes in local coffee shops, teachers’ homes and a one-room office, which was its most recent location in St. Elmo. According to Ms. Stevens, it was the increase in student enrollment and languages offered that led her to start the search for a new home for the school.
“We are really looking forward to being a part of the Business Development Center,” Ms. Stevens said. “As a small business starting out, we definitely will take advantage of all the wonderful resources and opportunities the Center offers.”
CSL operates with an emphasis on flexible schedules, trusted and credible instruction, cultural experiences and small classroom settings. Classes are offered either in established terms of six to 10 weeks or are customized to meet the student’s unique needs, such as when someone is planning a business trip abroad and needs a crash-course in the language, perhaps even in specific business jargon. Teachers are often referred to as “language coaches” and use a variety of teaching methods, including film, music, food and drink, to make the language come alive for students in a truly cultural experience.
Ms. Stevens said that the school attracts people from all walks of life, including kids, adults and young professionals for a variety of motivations.
Times and dates of classes are listed on the school’s website, www.chattanoogalanguage.com.
Students can register online or by calling 423.802.2040. Early bird registration offers a 10% discount and lasts until Aug. 3.