1) What are classes like during the Covid-19 pandemic?

At the moment, we are not offering any type of in-person learning. The format for group classes is as follows: class meets two hours at a time (i.e. 10:30am-12:30pm), for ten weeks, on Zoom. 

 

2) What is the best way to reach you?

The best way to reach us is with this email: bonjour@fcpdx.org, or with our individual emails: Stéphane.

 

3) What types of classes do you offer?

We offer private classes (one on one), semi-private classes (two students, who should ideally already know each other, like family or friends so your schedules match), and group classes (the maximum number of students is dependent on the class level, but it is typically around 5). We work with all ages and levels.

 

4) What is the schedule?

Private and semi-private classes can start at any time during the year, but group classes adhere to a 10-week schedule. Click our Calendar to see the schedule.

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5) How long are the classes?

Private and semi-private classes can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours or more a week, whereas group classes meet once a week for two hours (for example, 10:30-12:30).

 

6) Where are you located? 

That depends! Beginner group classes are held in a private apartment in SW Portland (near Multnomah Village), and intermediate and advanced group classes are held in NE Portland. Private and semi-private classes can be held where it is convenient to you! During the lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all our classes are held online. No in-person learning.

 

7) Can I come visit?

We apologize, but that is not a possibility at this time, as we are working from home!

 

8) Do you teach children? What about groups of children, or summer camps?

Yes, we teach children! Either in their own home, individually or with a friend, or if it's nice weather, at one of the many Portland parks, with parental supervision. At this time, we are not able to accommodate groups of children or camps. During the lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all our classes are held online. No in-person learning.

 

9) How do I pay?

You can pay online through this link, maxcheckout.fcpdx.org, by check (made out to French Community of Portland; please contact us for the address), or with cash.

 

10) I have to miss some classes. How do I get caught up?

If you miss a group class lesson, we can arrange for you to get caught up on a different day, before the next class. Private classes can be shifted to the next week with no interruption in the learning sequence, or pay period.

 

11) I paid before the semester, but now can't attend a group class. Can I get my money back?

In the unfortunate case that that would happen, we will reimburse you 25% of the class price. 

 

12) Do you have social events?

When the weather is nice, yes! We like to take advantage of the parks around the city. These events are very simple, usually a potluck. The main goal is to meet other Francophones and speak some French! Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we will not be offering social events at this time.

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13) Are your teachers native speakers?

Yes! Stéphane was born and raised in Paris, and Clara was raised in Besançon.

 

14) I get stressed in a traditional classroom setting. How would you best describe the environment of your school?

We understand! This is why we aim to create a stress-free and relaxed environment. We understand that learning a new language can be hard, and that a good environment and teacher can make all the difference. In our classes, we laugh a lot, create a great group dynamic, and are empathetic to the challenges of learning French. Our beginner classes also have a lot of English in them (how can you learn a language when you don't understand what is going on?).