Do you speak a second language? Perhaps you’ve thought about learning French, Spanish, German, or Arabic?

If so, there is no shortage of classes here in Seattle at Washington Academy of Languages (WAL), located on Nickerson Street, over by Seattle Pacific University.

Who are they?
Well, they’ve been around for almost 30 years teaching English language and culture to non-native speakers. Their longevity is a testament to the quality of the programs that Dr. Paul Schneider and the rest of the folks at WAL have architected. Not to mention, an impressive feat for an independent non-profit language school

So if you’re kicking around the idea of improving your language skills, give them a shout. Here’s some more info about WAL based on a conversation we had last week with Nell Gross, the teacher education program coordinator at WAL.

How big are they?
They currently have about 100 instructors involved in private one-on-one programs, group classes, and more.

What’s unique about WAL?
The diversity of students! They have students of all backgrounds coming from all over the world to learn English. They also have a diversity of students training to teach English in the US and abroad. As Nell mentioned to us, “everyone has such interesting reasons for wanting to learn or teach a language!”

Core mission?
They are a “serious” language school in the sense that they’re committed to comprehensive language learning. They aren’t just trying to move students through proficiency levels, or offer just enough of to get by, though they do offer courses for world travelers.

They aim to facilitate deep, cross cultural communication.

They also have fun in the class, too.

What makes WAL different from other language schools?

• They’re the only independent language school offering university credit programs for students and teachers.

• Programs in-house and online and across the state—in school districts and at corporate sites.
  Professional development for faculty and state-of-the-art teaching methodology—their teachers are observed and can take advantage of teacher education courses and professional development meetings.

• Programs that allow students to learn English in order to meet and interact with other students. One such program is their Conversation Partner Exchange.

• Students can participate in community programs using their volunteer exchange program.

Some of the ways they currently find new students

• Google.
• CraigsList.
• Word-of-mouth.
• Walk-ins to their office.
• Education Clearinghouses (Such as Edufind.com and learn4good.com, to name a few).
• Did I mention TeachStreet?

Want to learn at WAL?
Check out the offerings on their site. There are many!

Want to teach at WAL?
If so, they receive unsolicited resumes all the time. So if you’re interested in teaching, and have at least a Master’s degree in the field you want to teach, shoot WAL your resume, or give them a call.

Or, check out their TeachStreet profile page.