Currently, K-12 schools do not have consistent foreign language requirements at the national and state levels. In Pennsylvania, foreign language instruction is required for only middle and high school students. This denies the opportunity for elementary students to start learning a new language in school to enhance their basic literacy and comprehension skills. Additionally, studies have shown that learning a new language improves mental flexibility and memory which results in higher standardized test scores.
 
Learning a new language also presents future opportunities for students to better serve their education and career goals by studying abroad and communicating with international colleagues. Some schools offer dual-language immersion programs which teach a class in two languages and have a mix of native English speakers and English learners. My legislation would require schools to implement dual-language immersion programs from kindergarten through grade 12, with school districts choosing the foreign language that best reflects the demographics in their communities.
 
As a bilingual learner who majored in French and minored in Spanish, I know that learning these languages expanded my opportunities and skills for communicating with many people from different cultures. These skills have contributed to my success as an educator, businesswoman, and public servant.
 
These dual-language immersion programs are the foundation for helping students succeed as they grow up in our diverse world. Please join me in supporting these foreign language dual-immersion programs to provide students with enhanced learning opportunities and help them succeed in their future education and career goals.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1469 (Apr 23, 2025): P.L.30, No.14