Speak Globally, Learn Locally December 29, 2007 Shelly Spiegel-Coleman Speak globally, learn locally
Ruben Martinez got it right when he referred to the languages spoken by students in our schools as “one of our greatest strengths”. Who wouldn’t want their child to be able to speak two or more languages? With the right structure in our classrooms and teachers prepared to support language learning for all students we should see our students as U. S ambassadors, heads of international trade associations and businesses, and humanitarian workers able to cross all language and cultural divides.
“English only” is a failed and short sighted policy. The achievement gap between English learners and native English speaking students has widened every year since the state has tested all students. Knowing more than one language gives each student an advantage cognitively and academically. Other countries all over the world require students to know two or more languages. Doing less for our students “leaves every child behind”.
Shelly Spiegel-Coleman
Executive Director
Californians Together
Long Beach, CA 90803
