Francophonie at ISB

International schools such as ISB play a key role in promoting linguistic and cultural diversity among the future actors of a globalized world. At ISB, Francophonie holds not only historical significance but also a central role, serving as a powerful cultural and social bond. But why is it important to keep Francophonie alive at school when French is already the home language for many students? More importantly, how can we meaningfully nurture it within a community that brings together learners from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds?

What does Francophonie represent?

Francophonie, in the broad sense, refers to all people and institutions that use French as a language of communication, education, or culture. In the daily lives of our students, Francophonie goes far beyond the simple use of the French language. It becomes a shared space for discussion, cultural interaction, and collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, whether French is their first, second, or foreign language.

In this context, Francophonie represents a strong cultural link, a vector of identity, shared references, and common values. It nurtures a sense of belonging to a community that interconnects not only through a love of the French language and literature but also through a broader commitment to openness, dialogue, and respect for diversity.

This spirit is cultivated at ISB through initiatives such as the “Ambassadeurs, ambassadrices en herbe” competition, an international public speaking contest organized by the AEFE network, where students act as ambassadors, debating and presenting on global issues in French.

Why promote Francophonie?

1. To preserve and celebrate linguistic diversity
   In a world where English increasingly dominates, it is essential to preserve the richness of other languages, including the many varieties of French spoken worldwide. This means recognizing the importance of all languages and developing a truly multilingual education—one that celebrates humor and poetic language, as seen in activities like Le Printemps des Poètes, a festival that encourages students to discover and share poetry in French, and through French-language theater throughout the year.
    
2. To foster a sense of belonging
   Francophones and Francophiles participating in La Dictée de la Francophonie, a friendly spelling competition highlighting the beauty and complexity of the French language, feel connected to a global community. Alongside other student-centered activities, the warm and inclusive atmosphere of this traditional event fosters unity while honoring each participant’s cultural identity.
    
3. To develop intercultural skills
   Exploring the cultures of the Francophone world—across Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania—enhances our understanding of the world and deepens intercultural sensitivity. These skills are essential for growing up in an international environment. This year, for example, the screening of a Québécois film offered students a meaningful experience in cultural exchange and dialogue.
    
4. To offer academic and professional opportunities
   Mastering French opens many doors: study at universities (with the French Baccalaureate as the first diploma of a university curriculum), exchange programs, internships, or careers in French-speaking countries. At ISB, encouraging the use of French supports our students’ global ambitions and future opportunities.

Celebrating the Winners of the Dictée de la Francophonie: Students and adults, Francophones and Francophiles alike, came together for this joyful celebration of French language and culture. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!

How to Bring Francophonie to life in an international high school?

There are many practical ways to promote Francophonie in a multicultural school setting, and it is worth noting that March, le Mois de la Francophonie, is a true celebration of cultural expression.

1. Highlight events during Francophonie Month
   Beyond La Dictée de la Francophonie, activities such as Le Printemps des Poètes, La Semaine de la Presse, and La Semaine des Langues (celebrated in March) bring together a wide array of opportunities: writing contests, film screenings, exhibitions, meetings with Francophone authors, and more. These activities highlight Francophone languages and cultures in a joyful, inclusive, and creative way.
    
2. Cultural cafés
   These gatherings offer students a chance to meet with authors or scholars, discuss current topics, and come together in a setting where they can express themselves and explore new perspectives. They are especially meaningful for Francophone and Francophile students seeking connection and creative expression.
    
3. Support new Francophone students
   New students arriving from Francophone countries are welcomed and supported through language programs that allow them to pursue their academic curriculum in French while discovering other languages. This approach strengthens both confidence and connection.
    
4. Collaborate across the AEFE network
   At ISB, students connect with peers from other schools through sports tournaments in Chicago and Washington, theater festivals in New York, and virtual exchanges and partnerships. These opportunities reinforce ISB’s commitment to global citizenship and cultural exchange.
    
5. Encourage reading and media use in French
   Our Media Center provides students with plenty of material to spark their curiosity and stimulate the daily use of French beyond the classroom.
    

Cultural Café during World Language Week: During World Language Week, students hosted a Cultural Café to explore global cultures and languages through food, music, and multilingual comics.

As a source of openness, Francophonie at ISB reflects the richness and vitality of a living culture that continues to evolve within a global community. It conveys more than vocabulary or grammar—it offers access to diverse perspectives and meaningful dialogue.

By developing activities under the banner of Francophonie, ISB builds bridges between cultures, fosters mutual understanding, and prepares students to become global citizens who are multilingual, culturally aware, and ready to contribute to the world.

About the Author: Emmanuele Goulon currently teaches Art History and Music in the French program at ISB. She earned her PhD from the Sorbonne and has since held various positions in France, including Head of the Center for Teaching Resources and Deputy Head of the Teachers’ Training Institute. Dedicated to interdisciplinary work, she developed a comparative artistic framework to support cross-disciplinary exploration. Her research on the evolution of human thought through artistic expression led her to join Harvard University as a research affiliate.