How We Got Started

Lingua Language Academy's Susanne Jacobsen and Melissa Wagner answer additional questions that you might have.

What prompted you to start Lingua Language Academy?

Susanne: I was born in Austria, and thus originally spoke only German. Later, I moved to the United States and learned to speak English. After I met my husband—who was born in the United States, and whose high school German skills are rather rusty—we naturally spoke English together. However, it didn' t truly dawn on me that I was “ bilingual” until I was expecting my first child. I began researching language development, and discovered that there is a very critical biological period during which children develop lasting language skills.

Based on this knowledge, my husband and I agreed that I would speak German to our children, and that he would speak English to them. Therefore, our children would be introduced to—and surrounded by—both languages from birth. Known as OPOL (One Person, One Language), this technique is a very popular strategy for raising bilingual children.

Upon seeing how well our approach worked, I thought it would be great if other parents could help their children learn a second language. I strongly feel that all possibilities are within reach for bilingual children.

Lingua Language Academy was born from this desire to help.

What is the Academy's overall mission statement?

Melissa: To provide students with increased opportunities and multi-cultural awareness through world language education.

What is the ideal age for a parent to enroll their child in the Academy?

Susanne: The earlier, the better! Ultimately, 3 years is the ideal age—and thus we offer an immersion program for children ages 3-6. Immersion is the most effective way for your child to learn a language. We do offer Enrichment Classes for children who are 2 years old, but parents are going to see the most obvious results when their child has more verbal skills.

In your opinion, what is the #1 reason that a child should start to learn a foreign language at an early age?

Susanne: Because it' s easy to learn at an early age! The brain is primed to acquire language at a particular stage in life—before age 6. If children develop foreign language skills now, they can then take advantage of that foundation later in high school, college, and in their careers.

In general, how many students participate in the immersion program? How many students participate in the afternoon program?

Susanne: Presently, between 22-28 students participate in the immersion program, and about 30 students participate in the afternoon program.

How would you describe the atmosphere of a class at Lingua Language Academy?

Melissa: We have a fun and family-friendly environment. Many parents and students have mentioned this. Our facility is welcoming and comforting for students because it reminds them of home. Our teachers really embrace the abilities and personalities of our students because they genuinely care about the students. We also promote an atmosphere of discovery. If a child shows a particular interest in a subject, we generally work to incorporate that interest into our lesson plans. In the end, we aim to teach your child a foreign language in the way that best serves your child.

Finally, what makes the learning experience at Lingua Language Academy so unique?

Susanne: Due to our low teacher-student ratio, we can individualize the instruction and adapt to every child' s needs. We also make sure that our teachers keep up with the latest research and use age appropriate instruction practices. The team at Lingua Language Academy is up-to-date, up to the challenge, and ready to help your child on their upward journey toward success.