Italian Studies have blossomed at Memorial

The idea of offering Italian language and culture classes at San Joaquin Memorial has blossomed into a  promising and unique program over the past few years. Today, more than 60 students are enrolled in classes, ranging from Italian 1P-4P, all of which meet college entrance requirements set by the University of California System.

Plans are also underway to offer Italian AP exam opportunities to students enrolled in Italian 4P, according to Emanuela DeRosa, SJM World Languages instructor. “The Italian Studies program has been taught by native speakers since its inception. All classes follow the World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages recommended by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) for assessing student proficiency,” she explained. 

Language and cultural experiences enjoyed by SJM students encompass various disciplines, such as music, art, geography, cinema, and much more. In addition, the program is supported by annual school projects such as Christmas Italiano, Gnocchi-making and eating, end-of-year luncheons, and Bocce tournaments. 

Daniel Gugig was the first Memorial student chosen to complete a two-week study abroad experience at the University of Modena, Italy, learning from the world’s finest mechanical engineers from the Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Ducati companies. “All of these exciting experiences are scheduled to continue and expand as the Italian program grows,” said DeRosa.

The Italian Consul General’s Office in San Francisco, represented by Education Attaché Anna Zeppieri, has been extremely supportive of SJM, sharing its success story statewide, nationally, and internationally.

During a recent visit to Memorial in October, she commented that SJM is the only high school within a two to three-hour drive from the Valley that offers such comprehensive,  high quality Italian courses. Zeppieri also noted that SJM is the only program, to her knowledge, that enjoys a close partnership with a university (California State University, Fresno); the Italian Studies Interdisciplinary Minor Program; and Professor/Coordinator, Dr. Andrea Polegato.

Through the courtesy of the Italian Government/Ministry of Education, Memorial students participating in the Italian Studies program can also expect financial assistance/scholarships when taking Italian AP exams, as well as study abroad opportunities. In addition, language proficiency and bi-literacy certification for students, and year-round professional development for staff will be provided by the Italian Ministry of Education.  

Many thanks to all who have made this amazing Italian Studies experience possible!