Discovery Language Academy Inc

Discovery Language Academy Inc is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy advancement, skill development, and training opportunities in language acquisition, cultural understanding, and career education. The organization aims to provide individuals with the skills necessary to achieve personal, professional, and vocational goals by fostering a global perspective.

History

The Discovery Language Academy traces its roots back to the 1920s, when it first operated out of a social club in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Over the years, it underwent significant changes, including a relocation in the 1970s and a merger in 2015 with the Portuguese United for Education, Inc. and the Escola Oficial Portuguesa Casa da Saudade. By 2016, the academy took its current name and moved to the DeMello International Center, continuing its tradition of promoting Portuguese language and culture, alongside other languages such as Spanish.

Mission and Programs

The academy's mission is centered on equipping students with the skills required to thrive in an interconnected world. It offers programs from kindergarten to ninth grade and also provides conversational language classes for adults in languages like Portuguese and Spanish. Notably, the academy fills a void by offering Portuguese classes, which are not typically available in local schools beyond the sixth grade. Studies suggest that learning a second language before the age of 12 provides significant benefits, making early language education a core focus of the academy.

Educational Approach

Discovery Language Academy emphasizes innovative learning environments, including state-of-the-art facilities like the Zoom Room and Hub 128. These spaces are designed to enhance engagement and collaboration through cutting-edge technology, including virtual learning tools and interactive smart boards. The academy also prioritizes personalized education, tailoring its teaching methods to meet the unique needs of each learner. This approach is supported by a dedicated and experienced faculty committed to inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence in students.

Community and Cultural Engagement

Beyond its educational programs, the academy hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as wine tastings and family dinners, aiming to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage. The organization is working towards developing a student exchange program with the Azores, furthering its commitment to global connections and cultural preservation.

Financial Overview

As a nonprofit organization, Discovery Language Academy Inc receives revenue from various sources and manages its resources to support its educational and cultural initiatives. Recent financial data indicates a modest net income from operations, underscoring the academy's financial stability and ability to reinvest in its programs.

Overall, Discovery Language Academy Inc plays a significant role in promoting multilingualism, cultural awareness, and educational development in its community, aligning its efforts with the broader goals of enriching personal and professional opportunities in the global context.

[1] https://www.discoverylanguageacademy.org/dla/ [2] https://www.newbedfordguide.com/discovery-language-academy-luso-american-language-culture/2017/08/16 [3] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/04-2725417 [4] https://www.discoverylanguageacademy.org/dla/?page_id=432 [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/42725417