L'Etoile French Immersion School - Elementary Campus

Portland, Oregon. L'Etoile operates two campuses in Portland: a Preschool Campus at 5839 SW Hood Avenue (97239) and an Elementary Campus at 68 SW Miles Street (97219). The Johns Landing area hosts the campuses, serving families from Multnomah, Sellwood–Moreland, Burlingame and Hillsdale. Hours are Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–6:00 PM.

Preschool Campus serves ages 2 years through Pre-K; Elementary Campus serves Kindergarten through 5th Grade.

Private preschool and elementary school in Portland.

Affiliation with France; fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education.

School hours are 8:30 am–3:00 pm; preschool half-day pickup at 12:00 pm; before care starts at 7:30 am for children 3 and older; after care runs 3:00–6:00 pm. The calendar follows the French public school schedule with five teaching periods and breaks (October, December, February, April); optional fee-based care is available during October and February breaks.

Follows the French Ministry of Education curriculum, organized in cycles: Maternelle (Petite Section, Moyenne Section, Grande Section) and Primary School (1st–5th, CP–CM2). Provides a bilingual French–English learning experience rooted in French language and culture, taught by native French teachers. At least 90% of teachers are certified through the French Ministry of Education. About 75% of instructional time is in French, with 25% in English, and students may receive additional small‑group instruction as needed. The curriculum includes arts, music, drama, technology, and field trips; the calendar mirrors public schools in France with the academic year running September to mid‑June; hours are 8:30 am–3:00 pm, with aftercare 3:00–6:00 pm.

5:1 for ages 2–3; 10:1 for preschool ages over 3; elementary class size up to 22 students.

The school emphasizes student-centered learning and sees, supports, and empowers each child to thrive. The environment fosters independence and motivation, helping students build a lasting love of learning. Through hands-on activities, engaging lessons, and the use of technology, students are prepared to participate actively in their education. The curriculum is rooted in the French Ministry of Education, providing a strong academic foundation within a bilingual context. The program aims to build global awareness and respect for cultural traditions, and teachers create a vibrant, supportive space where students feel safe, excited, and ready to learn.

The program provides a bilingual French-English learning experience, with instruction rooted in French language and culture. Preschool and Pre-K do not require prior knowledge of French; students in 1st through 5th grade must show sufficient French proficiency for their grade. Approximately 75% of instructional time is in French and 25% in English, with additional small-group instruction available if needed. More than 70% of families do not speak French as their home language, and resources include adult after-school French classes and access to the school library to supplement exposure to French. The curriculum follows the French Ministry of Education framework, organized into cycles (e.g., Maternelle, Primary School).

The school provides a safe and supportive space where students feel safe, excited, and ready to learn. It fosters independence, motivation, and a love of learning through student-centered approaches and engaging, hands-on activities. The learning environment is described as vibrant and supportive, contributing to students' overall wellbeing as they grow academically and culturally. The bilingual program and French-language culture are integrated in a way that supports confidence and a positive attitude toward learning. The school aims to prepare students for the future while promoting curiosity and respect for others.

The school provides a safe and supportive space where every child thrives.

1. Inquire: Contact the Admissions Coordinator to ask questions and arrange an in-person meeting to understand your child's needs and the school's experience. The coordinator can answer questions and help with enrollment. This initial conversation sets expectations and helps determine fit.
2. Visit: Schedule an individual campus tour. Tours include classroom observations and conversations with staff. All family members are welcome.
3. Apply: Applications for the following school year are accepted on a rolling basis starting in October. Applications are evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis. Begin by completing the online application form.
4. Enroll: Enrollment requires payment of the registration fee ($200) and the new student fee ($500) to secure your child's spot. The fees are submitted with enrollment to finalize placement. The school accepts new enrollments once these payments are received.
5. Tuition: Tuition information is published with monthly and annual payment options and may vary by program. The rates cover Early Preschool through Elementary and include before/after care options with additional fees.