Fostering independence and self-discovery through the exchange of language, culture and ideas.
A unique and authentic learning environment, L’Ecole Française du Maine is the only French immersion school north of Boston. All academic subjects are taught in French by native speakers of the language, and our Preschool through Grade 6 programs follow the directives of both the Ministere de L’Education Nationale and the educational guidelines set by the State of Maine.
Entirely renovated and situated in the heart of the South Freeport fishing village, L’Ecole Française du Maine is located only 15 minutes north of Portland, Maine’s largest city. With small classes in spacious, sunny classrooms, a diverse student body and close proximity to the Maine woods and coastline, our school offers the best possible atmosphere for children to learn and grow.
Keywords: preschool, childcare, private, school, bilingual, French, Maine, suzuki music, YMCA swim, immersion, elementary school, NEASC, NAEYC,
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
12 years
What is your primary product or service?
L’Ecole Française du Maine offers an educational experience entirely in French, instilling in our students a constant curiosity towards foreign languages and the diverse cultures of the world. We believe that it is through play, actions and the search for independence that each child discovers his/her unique path to learning and obtains the necessary tools for development. The children are encouraged to express themselves freely in French and through various art forms, helping them boost their confidence and their knowledge. It’s through this commitment to language and culture that we’re able to provide a diverse, mind-opening educational experience in an atmosphere of understanding and discovery.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Accreditation
L’Ecole Française du Maine offers a unique approach to bilingual and multi-cultural education, through immersion in the French language. L’Ecole Française du Maine is fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education (AEFE), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the Maine Department of Education and the New England Association of Independant schools. The School is affiliated with MLF (Mission Laïque Française), AFSA (Association of French School in North America and AEFE (Agence pour l'enseignement français à l'étranger). French curriculum and the Maine Learning Results are combined to allow students to transition into any school.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
du Maine is a non-profit organization that provides a bilingual education for people in Maine. Recognizing the numbers of Franco-American citizens concentrated in this area, the founders hoped to create a French learning experience for the children of people who grew up with French-speaking parents and grandparents, thereby passing that cultural heritage to the younger, English-speaking generations.
Originally located in Winthrop, Maine, the school relocated to Freeport in the fall of 2004 to accommodate the high demand for bi-lingual education. We worked closely with Freeport town officials to obtain a 25-year lease on a vacant elementary school, which was completely renovated in time for the beginning of the 2005 academic year. Today, as in 2002, the rigorous academic program contributes to the renaissance of the French language in Maine, and to the development of our students into ambassadors of acceptance and independence.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
One
Provide detailed directions to your location
North on 295
Take Exit 17
Right at end of ramp take Route 1 North for 1 mile.
Take a right on South Freeport Road (at the by "Big Indian").
After 2 miles, the school is on the right.
South on 295
Take Exit 20
Bear left and continue on Route 1 South. Turn left onto Pine St.
Continue for 2 miles until you reach a 4-way stop.
Go right. Look for the school on your left.
What type of payments do you accept?
please contact the school
Which areas do you service?
Greater Portland area
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Founded by Elizabeth and Willy LeBihan in May 2002, L’Ecole Française du Maine is a non-profit organization that provides a bilingual education for people in Maine. Recognizing the numbers of Franco-American citizens concentrated in this area, the founders hoped to create a French learning experience for the children of people who grew up with French-speaking parents and grandparents, thereby passing that cultural heritage to the younger, English-speaking generations.
What are your hours of operation?
L’Ecole Française du Maine offers early morning child care before school commences each morning and ‘Aftercare’ for parents whose schedules make it difficult to meet the school hours of 8:30 to 3:30pm.
Our after-school activities are in French, and are age-appropriate, engaging, interactive and challenging. Students are given an opportunity to wind down from the school day with a snack and recess before scheduled activities begin.
Both of these programs are offered at additional cost. Please contact the Directors for a current fee schedule. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. Minimum registration periods apply, while non-registered students may be accepted from time to time based upon availability. We believe the teacher-student ratio is critical for a safe and enriching experience for your child. We therefore retain the right to refuse enrollment.
After-School Clubs
EFDM offers weekly after-school club activities after dismissal from 3:45 to 4:45. Among some of the clubs offered, students may choose from: Homework Club, English workshop, Arts and Crafts, Visual Arts, Scrapbooking, Strings Ensemble, Lego-Robotics and Board Games.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
our video
https://vimeo.com/50845084
L’Ecole Française du Maine offers a unique approach to bilingual and multi-cultural education, through immersion in the French language. L’Ecole Française du Maine is fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education (AEFE), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the Maine Department of Education and the New England Association of Independant schools. The School is affiliated with MLF (Mission Laïque Française), AFSA (Association of French School in North America and AEFE (Agence pour l'enseignement français à l'étranger). French curriculum and the Maine Learning Results are combined to allow students to transition into any school.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
"A different language is a different view of life" -Federico Fellini