The Foreign Language Department helps students develop increased language proficiency and cultural competency as they progress from level to level gaining both linguistic and cultural knowledge. Through the study of other languages, students gain the ability to be productive participants in a multilingual, global society. Foreign language classes help students develop understanding of the structure of language as well as awareness that there are multiple ways of viewing the world. Baldwin Middle School students participate in special activities during Multicultural Week in March, culminating in the Multicultural Festival.

The department meets the goals of the New York State curriculum. Seventh grade students enroll in Introduction to French, Italian, or Spanish, and eighth grade students progress to French I, Italian I, or Spanish I. With the introductory and Level 1 courses, students speak, listen, read, and write in their target language to acquire basic proficiency and learn about the culture of their respective language. These courses culminate with the FLACS Checkpoint A exam. Students obtain a credit toward high school graduation after passing this exam and Level 1 coursework.