Prairie Elementary offers students a unique educational path through its French Immersion program. At Prairie, students learn academic subjects in French, allowing them to develop the language naturally, the same way children learn their first language. This immersive approach builds fluency, strengthens academic skills, and nurtures cultural appreciation from an early age.
Rooted in Our Community’s Culture
South Louisiana has deep French-speaking heritage. Many families in Acadiana proudly trace their history to French, Acadian, or Creole ancestors. Learning French is more than acquiring a skill. It connects students to the cultural traditions that helped shape our region’s identity.
By learning French, students gain a deeper understanding of where they come from, while developing the tools to engage confidently with the world beyond their community.
Benefits of Bilingual Immersion
Research shows that children who learn in a second language environment often experience:
- Stronger listening and comprehension skills
- Enhanced problem-solving and creative thinking
- Better attention control and memory
- Increased flexibility when working with new ideas
- Improved performance in reading and writing in their first language
In an immersion classroom, students learn math, science, social studies, and literacy in French. They don’t just study vocabulary, they use the language in meaningful academic and social settings. This helps students become comfortable speaking, understanding, and thinking in more than one language.
These are lifelong strengths that support academic success and global readiness.
A Supportive Learning Community
Prairie Elementary is known for a positive, caring school culture where every student is valued. Teachers and staff support each child’s academic and emotional growth, helping students feel confident and ready to learn. The French Immersion program reflects this commitment by opening doors to cultural awareness, personal confidence, and expanded opportunity.
Open House for Incoming Immersion Families
Families who are interested in enrolling in the French Immersion program for Kindergarten or 1st grade are invited to attend the Prairie Elementary open house:
Date: Monday, December 8, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 1101 Rue du Belier, Lafayette, LA 70506
This event is an opportunity to meet the staff, ask questions, and see how immersion learning takes place.
Apply by December 17
Families wishing to enroll students in the Prairie Elementary French Immersion Program should apply by December 17.
Choosing French Immersion at Prairie means giving students the gift of language, culture, and community. It opens a future filled with confidence, connection, and opportunity.