In April 2009, our journey began when Gabrielle Durana and a group of passionate parents decided to create an opportunity for children to learn and preserve the French language. Today, let’s delve into EFBA’s inspiring history, identity, values, and teaching philosophy to understand the driving force behind our institution.
Our History: A Decade of Dedication
EFBA’s inception was fueled by the desire to provide native & non-native speakers with the tools to become ‘des citoyens du monde’ / “global citizens.” The journey to bilingualism requires a steadfast alliance between parents and educators; EFBA was founded on this very principle.
The part-time school model we provide includes afterschool programs, summer camps, online and in-person cultural programs, plus exam preparation. Our comprehensive approach ensures a rich linguistic and cultural experience for students, while ensuring they’re prepared for the DELF-DALF. Taking these exams opens up doors to a wide range of educational and professional opportunities, including being able to attend French universities.
EFBA’s journey has been marked by milestones, such as our accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in 2019, becoming an official test center (currently available for EFBA students only) for the DELF and DALF exam in 2016, and publishing our Virgule Textbook Library for French schools worldwide. Under the Creative Commons license, our textbooks are available at no cost so that EFBA can facilitate French Education across the globe.
Our Values: The Bedrock of EFBA
EFBA’s values form the foundation of our programs: Public service, social entrepreneurship, innovation, inclusivity, cultural diversity, and accessibility are the cornerstones of our ethos. These values reflect EFBA’s determination to make the world a better place by taking direct action to address injustices, fostering a culture of curiosity and lifelong learning!
Our Identity: A Labor of Love
EFBA is more than just an educational institution, it’s a labor of love. Our labor is driven by the belief that bilingual education should be accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic background and that all languages deserve to be supported in their transmission from one generation to the next. EFBA’s identity encompasses supporting families seeking to preserve their heritage and culture, while retaining bilingualism.
Bilingualism nurtures harmonious hybrid identities, enhances cognitive abilities, and shapes world citizens who think empathetically. EFBA aims to transform the education system to make bilingual education accessible to ALL interested families.
Our Teaching Philosophy: Fostering Bilingualism and Beyond
EFBA’s teaching philosophy centers on play-based and project-based learning, which not only promotes language proficiency but also enhances social and cognitive skills. Our emphasis on empathy and collaboration prepares students for success in a society that values teamwork.
EFBA recognizes that collaboration is an essential trait for everyone, and is something that we want to exemplify.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with a team” – African Proverb
Our Future Goals and Outcomes: Shaping Well-Rounded French Speakers
EFBA’s future goals extend beyond exclusively language proficiency; we aim to shape well-rounded students that appreciate diversity, possess self-confidence, and exhibit qualities of care, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Our commitment to communicating in French with students creates an immersive environment that nurtures curiosity and meaningful interactions.
As we reflect on our past, embrace our present, and look forward to the future, EFBA remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping well-rounded French speakers who appreciate diversity, exhibit empathy, and carry the values of care, honesty, respect, and responsibility into the world. Our journey is ongoing, and our vision for the future is one where every child has the opportunity to become a true global citizen through bilingualism. With our dedicated team, passionate parents, and the unwavering support of our community, we are excited to continue advancing our mission. The heart and soul of EFBA is dedicated readers and learners like you–and we encourage you to apply for our board, learning staff, or administrative faculty. Donate today!
Written in English by George Balan
Translated into French by Franck Abate
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