Global Learning in Action at Stokes School: French Consul Judges Spelling Bee
Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter School hosted its second annual “Épelle-Moi,” the French Spelling Bee, earlier last year. The event celebrated language mastery, confidence, and community as students demonstrated their dedication to French immersion learning. Special guests included officials from the Embassy of France and the Alliance Française who helped make the day memorable.
Students from both campuses earned top honors. Lester from the East End campuses placed third, Felix from the Brookland campus earned second place, and Audrey from Brookland campus took first place after correctly spelling the word moustique (which stands for mosquito in English). Their achievements highlighted not only individual excellence but also the strength of the Stokes School French immersion program.
The presence of the Consul General of the French Embassy as an award presenter transformed the spelling bee into a real-world learning experience. As the District's first public charter school to offer French immersion, Stokes School’s nearly 30-year commitment to language instruction was affirmed as part of a global Francophone community rather than an isolated classroom experience.
“This event shows our students that the language they are learning connects them to real people and real places around the world,” said Pape Demba Kane, Instructional Coach, East End campus, and organizer of the French Spelling Bee. “Being evaluated by members of the Francophone community reinforces that their work matters beyond school walls.”
That connection was especially meaningful given the Consul’s personal ties to Martinique, which is also the destination for the Stokes School fifth-grade international study tour. Students were able to see how language, culture, and identity intersect in lived experiences.
“These opportunities build confidence and help students see themselves as global citizens,” shared Erika Bryant, Chief Development Officer and former Executive Director of Stokes School. “They learn that language is a bridge for understanding, respect, and collaboration.”
To learn more about Elsie Whitlow Stokes School campuses, click here.
