There are nearly 350 languages spoken in America. For sixty million Americans, or 20% of all American households, English is not their primary language. In 2016, twelve million American children, or about 22% of all our kids spoke a language other than English at home. Some critics view bilingual education as an impediment, rather than a means, to acquire proficiency in English and to assimilate into our culture. Studies show both native English speakers and English learners in dual language immersion programs benefit from bilingual education and experience substantial gains in language, literacy and math. While these programs remain in high-demand across the country, they tend to cluster in affluent communities that provide limited access to low-income students.

Some fear the use of Spanish in our country may someday threaten English. They point to Canada, divided over the use of French and English and say this may happen here. Supporters say bilingual skills are not threats to American society, but assets. They claim bilingual education programs were created to help second-language children learn English, obtain an education, and integrate into our society as contributing members. They also say bilingualism is an asset in our multicultural society and provides these children with more job opportunities in the economy of the future. They claim that without these programs, these children will lag behind their peers and may never fulfill their academic or personal potential.

Pending Legislation: H.R.3397 - SYLLABLE Act
Sponsor: Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ)
Status: House Committee on Education and Labor
Chair: Rep. Robert Scott (VA)

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