Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology
Global Circuits
World Languages, Biliteracy & International Travel
Our approach to global learning connects Mandarin study, cultural understanding, language recognition, and educational travel to the people and ideas shaping our world.
Our global learning philosophy
Language, culture & connection belong in a technology education.
At Data Science, preparing technology leaders and change agents includes learning to communicate, understand context, and engage thoughtfully with others. Global Circuits brings these commitments together across the classroom, cultural experiences, and international learning.
Communicate across cultures
Technology connects people across borders. Our students need the language skills, listening habits, and cultural understanding to collaborate with people whose experiences differ from their own.
Learn with curiosity & respect
Students examine perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and approach communities as learners. Cultural learning includes history, everyday life, contemporary society, and the people behind technological change.
Value every language
Our students bring languages, cultures, and identities that enrich our school. We encourage students to strengthen their home languages while developing new ways to communicate.
Connect learning to experience
Classroom study, cultural activities, proficiency goals, and travel help students apply their learning. Reflection connects these experiences to their growth as researchers, creators, and future leaders.
Our world language program
Why Mandarin?
Mandarin study expands the ways students communicate, access ideas, and understand Chinese-speaking cultures and communities.
We offer Mandarin because a strong technology education should also develop language and cultural understanding. Sustained study gives students a chance to communicate in another language, examine perspectives, and connect their interests to a wider range of people and possibilities.
Communication with purpose
Students work toward understanding what they hear and read, participating in conversations, and expressing ideas in spoken and written language.
Culture in context
Language study includes the experiences and perspectives of Chinese-speaking communities. Students connect communication to contemporary life, cultural expression, and historical context.
Growth through sustained study
Students build skills over time through practice, feedback, and increasingly challenging tasks. The goal is meaningful communication and continued progress.
A pathway from foundations to advanced study
Build the foundation
Develop pronunciation, listening, everyday conversation, reading, and writing. Learn to communicate meaning and build steady practice habits.
Strengthen communication
Use more complex language, interpret varied materials, and connect communication to culture. Build confidence through conversations, presentations, and written work.
Pursue advanced study
Plan with your teacher and counselor for AP Chinese Language and Culture when ready. Continue developing language skills through authentic materials and cultural inquiry.
Document your proficiency
Discuss HSK opportunities and an approved Seal of Biliteracy assessment plan. These are distinct goals with their own requirements and timelines.
This is a learning progression, not a fixed grade-by-grade placement chart. Your teacher and counselor help identify the appropriate courses and next steps.
Advanced language study
AP Chinese Language and Culture
Our AP Chinese pathway supports students ready to deepen their Mandarin communication and cultural understanding through college-level study. Students interpret language, exchange ideas, and present information in meaningful contexts.
What students develop
- Listening and reading comprehension
- Conversation and interpersonal communication
- Written expression and spoken presentations
- Cultural interpretation and comparison
Plan your next step
Discuss readiness and course planning with your Mandarin teacher and counselor. Enrolled students use their teacher’s directions and My AP resources for assigned preparation.
Colleges set their own AP credit and placement policies. Review each institution’s policy as you plan.
Visit our Advanced Placement (AP) HubDocumenting language growth
HSK & the New Jersey Seal of Biliteracy
Language learning can lead to different forms of assessment and recognition. Work with your teacher and counselor to identify the goal, preparation, and timeline that fit your progress.
Chinese proficiency assessment
HSK
HSK, or Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, is an international standardized Chinese proficiency test. It provides a way for learners to demonstrate their Chinese language skills and set goals for further study.
At Data Science, HSK connects to our Mandarin learning and proficiency goals. Ask your Mandarin teacher about the appropriate level, current format, preparation, and school testing arrangements.
Explore official HSK informationState recognition at graduation
New Jersey State Seal of Biliteracy
The Seal recognizes students who demonstrate qualifying proficiency in English and at least one additional language by high school graduation.
Students must meet New Jersey’s English proficiency requirements and the approved assessment requirements for the other language. The school reviews evidence and coordinates the process under current NJDOE rules.
Review NJDOE requirementsLanguages learned at home and in the community count, too.
The Seal can recognize a language you have developed through family, community, or school learning. Share your language background with your teacher or counselor and ask about approved assessment options.
Three different milestones
How do AP Chinese, HSK & the Seal differ?
| Opportunity | What it is | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| AP Chinese | A College Board course and examination focused on Mandarin language and culture. | Discuss course readiness and planning with your teacher and counselor. |
| HSK | A separate assessment of Chinese language proficiency. | Ask your Mandarin teacher about the level and current school arrangements. |
| Seal of Biliteracy | A state award based on qualifying language proficiency evidence. | Ask the school to review your English and additional-language assessment plan. |
Global learning at school
Culture, performance & language practice
Mandarin HSK Club
Ask about current opportunities to extend your practice, connect with other learners, and work toward language proficiency goals. Your teacher or club advisor can share this year’s meeting and participation details.
Mandarin Drama Club
Cultural and performance experiences give students additional ways to connect language, expression, and collaboration. Ask about the current projects and opportunities to participate.
School announcements and advisor messages provide the current schedule and activity details.
International learning
Explore the world through academic experiences.
Travel connects classroom questions to places, people, technologies, histories, and cultures.
Annual international experience
Japan STEM & Cultural Experience
Japan is our annual international trip. Our Japan STEM Exchange began in 2025 and connects exploration of robotics, sustainability, future city design, and Japanese culture.
Students consider how innovation works in a particular place and how people’s daily lives, traditions, and communities shape the world around them.
Learning connections
- STEM, innovation & problem-solving
- Sustainability & the built environment
- Culture, history & daily life
- Independence, collaboration & reflection
Watch our 2025 Japan trip highlights
Future destinations under exploration
We are exploring additional countries, including China, Ghana, and others, to extend opportunities for language learning, cultural understanding, historical inquiry, and academic exploration.
These are possibilities under exploration. Confirmed destinations, dates, participation criteria, and costs will be shared through official school communications.
Learning before, during & after travel
An educational experience extends beyond the itinerary.
Before the experience
Research the destination and learning goals. Attend required meetings, complete the school’s participation process, and prepare for local customs, communication, and group expectations.
During the experience
Observe closely, ask questions, participate respectfully, and connect what you see to your coursework. Follow the directions of school staff and trip leaders.
After the experience
Reflect on what challenged or changed your thinking. Share observations, compare perspectives, and connect the experience to future learning and personal goals.
For current students and families
How to get involved
Language learning & recognition
- Review your current language learning and interests with your teacher.
- Discuss the next course and any AP Chinese goals with your counselor.
- Ask about HSK preparation or an approved Seal assessment plan.
- Track the school’s registration, preparation, and documentation deadlines.
International travel
- Check official school announcements for the current opportunity.
- Attend the student and family information session.
- Review the itinerary, eligibility criteria, costs, and preparation requirements.
- Complete applications, permissions, and other required steps by the published deadlines.
Official student resources
Explore, prepare & plan
AP Chinese Language and Culture
Learn about the course, exam, skills, and College Board resources.
Visit AP ChineseMy AP & AP Classroom
Enrolled AP students can access their class and teacher-assigned learning resources.
Sign in to My APChinese Tests Service Website
Use official HSK information for current test descriptions, preparation resources, and assessment updates.
Visit official HSK resourcesNJ Seal of Biliteracy
Review the state’s approved evidence of proficiency and current program guidance.
Visit NJDOEQuestions & answers
Global Circuits FAQs
Why does a technology-focused school offer Mandarin?
Technology work involves people, communities, and ideas across the world. Mandarin study helps students develop communication skills and understand perspectives beyond their own, while building cultural knowledge that complements STEM, humanities, and career learning.
Do I need to know Mandarin before I start?
Students can begin language learning through the foundational course pathway. Tell your teacher and counselor about any prior study or language experience so they can help identify an appropriate starting point.
How do I move toward AP Chinese?
Build consistent study habits and discuss your progress with your Mandarin teacher. Your teacher and counselor can help you plan the coursework and preparation needed for AP Chinese Language and Culture. The appropriate sequence depends on your experience and readiness.
Are HSK and AP Chinese the same?
They are different assessments. AP Chinese is connected to the College Board’s Advanced Placement course and exam program. HSK is a separate Chinese proficiency assessment. Discuss the purpose and preparation for each with your teacher.
Does passing HSK automatically earn the Seal of Biliteracy?
No. The Seal uses New Jersey’s approved evidence and eligibility rules. Ask the school to identify your qualifying assessment plan.
Can I pursue the Seal in a language I speak at home?
Yes. Discuss your language background with the school, including languages learned at home or in the community. The school can review the approved assessment options.
Why do we travel to Japan if our world language is Mandarin?
Mandarin is our world language pathway, while international learning reaches across many cultures. The Japan experience connects STEM, innovation, culture, and global awareness. Each destination offers its own questions, contexts, and opportunities to learn.
Is Japan the only destination?
Japan is our annual international travel experience. We are also exploring additional destinations. New opportunities will be announced when the school is ready to share confirmed plans.
How do students apply for a trip?
Watch school announcements and your grade-level Schoology hub for the current opportunity. Review the published participation criteria, attend the information meeting, and complete the required student and family steps by the school’s deadlines.
Where will families find dates, prices, and requirements?
The school provides trip-specific information, including dates, itinerary, costs, payment arrangements, eligibility, permissions, travel documentation, and preparation expectations. Contact the school before making commitments based on an unconfirmed itinerary.
Student & family support
Start with your Mandarin teacher or school counselor.
For language coursework, HSK, or language enrichment, contact your Mandarin teacher. For AP planning, the Seal of Biliteracy, or course scheduling, connect with your teacher and counselors Dimitris Meredith or Tatyana Zapata.
For international travel questions and family information sessions, contact the Main Office to connect with the school’s travel team.
Call 973-350-5088International Travel
Global Learning in Action
At the Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology, international travel is a vital extension of our academic program. These experiences deepen classroom learning, expand cultural awareness, and prepare students to lead in a global society.
In 2025, we launched our annual Japan STEM Exchange, giving students the opportunity to explore robotics, sustainability, and future city design while experiencing Japanese culture and innovation firsthand.
Watch highlights from our 2025 Japan STEM Trip here:
International travel at our school reflects our core values—Innovation, Navigation, Sustainability, Passion, Inclusion, Relevance, and Excellence (INSPIRE)—and brings relevance to subjects like engineering, humanities, and computer science. These experiences help students connect what they learn to how the world works.
Next, we’re planning a trip to Ghana for students in our African American Studies program, offering a powerful opportunity to explore cultural roots, history, and identity.
At Data Science, we don’t just teach students about the world—we help them experience it.