FAQ
How did the school get started; how long has it been around?
The school began in 2006 to provide language classes for children. Since that time, it has grown to include a preschool, adult classes, playgroup, cultural classes, and summer camps.
The school’s mission is to promote the Italian language and culture to children and adults in a student-centered environment; nurturing responsible, global citizens by providing cross-cultural understanding and fostering a deep appreciation for world civilizations that intersect with the Italian culture.
Scuola Italiana is a registered, 501(c)3 nonprofit.
Where are your classes located?
Virtually and in-person at 1542 NW 14th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 in the Pearl District.
How much does it cost to take a class at your school?
Adult Program Classes – $14 an hour plus a $25 registration fee per term
Preschool Program – $11 dollars an hour or $44 a day with an annual fee of $75 to hold the spot in class, cover administrative fees, and the cost of supplies
Children’s Program – $13 an hour plus a $25 registration fee per term
Financial based partial Scholarships are available. Please email info@scuola.us for more information.
Can I visit a class before I enroll to make sure it’s for me?
Yes, as long as there is still space in the classroom, the school provides one complimentary class to allow students/parents to meet the teacher and observe a class to ensure that the class is a good fit both in regard to the instructor and the level. Email info@scuola.us to request a complementary observation. (NOTE: some of our more popular classes, such as A1 New Beginner, fill up very quickly. We will not hold a spot for an observation for those classes, but if there is space remaining at the beginning of the class then observations are welcome).
I have some experience already, how do I know in which class to enroll?
Placement tests are given to adults with prior language experience. Contact the administrator at info@scuola.us and a test will be sent to you.
What’s your student to teacher ratio?
A 6:1 student – teacher ratio is maintained in preschool classes (ages 3 to 5 years); a 8:1 student – teacher ratio is maintained in the other children’s classes (ages 7-11 years). The school brings in an assistant when enrollment exceeds those numbers. Adult classes typically average between five to twelve students to one teacher. There is a 12:1 ratio for adult classes.
Where are your administrative offices located?
As a small, growing school, it is important to keep overhead costs low in order to invest back into the school and maintain lower tuition prices. Scuola Italiana is not a typical brick and mortar school. Each board and staff member work from home. Many of our teachers teach virtually. We have a location in the Pearl where we host our Preschool and our in-person Adult and Children’s classes and events.