The world language department at Jefferson High School offers four-year language learning experiences in four languages: French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.

Students learn about the cultures native to each language, as well as how to speak, listen, read, and write in the language. Students will also learn to pronounce new sounds and a new alphabet. All world languages offer an opportunity for students to travel to a country that speaks the language they’re learning in order to practice speaking skills and learn firsthand about the culture.

World language is not a high school graduation requirement in Cedar Rapids Community School District; however, those wishing to participate in the honors program need to enroll in a world language class for at least two consecutive years. College requirements vary greatly among state and private colleges and universities. Most state universities, such as University of Northern Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Iowa, require from two to four years of high school world language as either an admissions requirement or a graduation requirement.