It’s okay, Utah. We are happy that you are taking massive action with your language immersion programs. Effectively jumping on the latest trend in bilingual education. It is important and affects us all.
Language immersion programs are moving full speed ahead in Utah.
Educators are now looking to rapidly expand dual language programs and language immersion programs due to the decline in protests against bilingual education.
Language immersion programs are a technical education that promotes the development of bilingual children through instruction only in the minority language while they are in school. Think of One Parent One Language… but with only one parent; teachers).
Utah has embraced the idea with unlikely fervor, despite being the state that routinely ranks last in the nation for education spending, according to US Census figures. To make it even more interesting, Utah passed an “English Only” law in 2000. Since then, they’ve changed their minds.
The English-only law, which was passed in Utah in 2000, allows exemptions only for public health and safety, court proceedings, education, and tourism.
Salt Lake City Republicans, who see language immersion programs as a catalyst for Utah to become a bigger player in the world economy, have pledged millions of dollars to the program. The popularity of these programs continues to drive demand.
Language immersion programs began in Utah about four years ago, however, they have recently gained popularity. 14,000 students are currently enrolled with options in French, Spanish, Portuguese and Mandarin; German and Arabic are next on the docket. These programs begin in first grade and go through middle school. Successful students can study college language courses throughout high school.
20,000 students are already enrolled for next year; nothing short of amazing. That constitutes a 43% increase in the overall numbers year over year. In business, that’s something to get pretty excited about.
Language immersion programs continue to pop up across the country and are growing just as fast in metropolitan areas around the world. Even in the upper midwest, where I’m from, the shows are catching on. I have relatives who have enrolled their children in these programs in cities like Minneapolis.
Whether we like it or not (we like it!), globalization is taking over. China is becoming a power in the world and the Middle East is increasingly affecting our daily lives; everything from oil to cultural issues and wars. If we want today’s children to compete in this global economy, we must encourage global citizenship and raise bilingual children.
I’m excited to see where this all goes. Hopefully, language immersion programs aren’t just the new fad and they’re here to stay. Aside from the many benefits of being bilingual, and this is NOT a complete list, knowing another language is personally very rewarding. I leave you with a quote from Mr. Nelson Mandela:
If you talk to a man in a language he understands, it goes to his head. If you speak to him in his language, he touches her heart.
Well said Nelson… well said. We want our future leaders to be able to connect with the rest of the world, so let’s get started today!
LivingBilingual author Jeffrey Nelson