Frequently Asked Questions (July 31, 2006)

·  What program does your school offer?
Our school offers language classes (two 50-minute period from 2 to 3:50 p.m.) and enrichment classes (one 50-minute period from 4:00-4:50 pm). Class size varies depends on the enrollment.  We also keep the student’s best interest in mind.

·  How much is the tuition ?
The tuition is $155 per student per semester, plus the $10 registration processing fee per student. The registration processing fee can be waived for prior students if registered before pre-registration date ends. The new families are exempted from the registration processing fee. The tuition will cover all the expenses including both language and enrichment classes. School Board approved a discount policy to give a $5 discount for the second student and thereafter.

·  Do you offer Chinese language classes for adults who do not have prior Chinese language training or background?
Yes, we do.  We use Chinese pin-yin pronunciation system to aid pronunciation and teach both traditional and simplified characters. This class is one of our English-teaching classes.

·  Do you use traditional or simplified Chinese characters?
We teach both traditional and simplified Chinese characters. The language classes are divided into three sections: traditional characters, simplified characters (both use Mandarin to teach) and English teaching classes (for those who do not have Chinese language training or background). We have varies classes based on age and level of knowledge of Chinese.

·  What enrichment classes do you offer? Is any of the classes for adults students or parents?
The enrichment classes are non-language classes, mostly cultural related, such as art & crafts, ping-pong, badminton, drawing, martial arts, folk dances, Chinese chess, etc. We also have volleyball, basketball, and soccer to accommodate those who just want to have some physical exercises. However, we do offer a Conversational class as part of the enrichment classes so that adults/parents can continue to practice Chinese language in the third period. We also have some classes or activities for parents, such as Tai-Chi, flower rearrangement, aerobic dancing, badminton, and some sports activities in GYM.

·  How many levels of classes does your school have?
Our school has three distinct classes: Mandarin-teaching with traditional characters. Mandarin teaching with simplified characters, and English teaching with both characters. We have about 16 to 20 classes based on student’s level.

·  When does the school start and end?
Our school runs from September to May on Sunday afternoons, from 2 to 4:50. The first two periods are language classes and the third period is an enrichment class.

·  When do you process registration?
The next school year starts on Aug. 27, 2006. On-line registration for the 2006 fall semester starts in early August for both new and returned students, and on-site registration will be at the school opening day at 1 p.m. for new and returned students.

·  What is the minimum age your school will accept as a student?
It depends on the maturity of each child.  The age we recommend is when the child can sit and learn in the class without the presence of the parent.

·  Where is your school?
Our school currently rents the facility of St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf, 1809 Clarkson Rd Chesterfield, MO 63017-5065.