AJC.com > Blogs > Get Schooled > Archives > 2008 > March > 04
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Sprechen Sie Deutsch? Parlez Vous Francais?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You may not speak German or French, but kindergarten students may learn these languages and more if Senate Majority Leader Tommie Williams has his way.
Williams is trying to find $20 million to provide foreign language lessons in all kindergarten classrooms. His plan is to add more money every year so eventually every grade in all Georgia elementary schools will offer a foreign language.
Williams and other foreign language supporters argue students need to know a second language to be vital in today’s global society. In the last couple of years charter schools have promoted this same belief by offering Spanish, Chinese and Japanese to elementary school students.
Others question whether spending $20 million on foreign language classes is the best use of money. Some argue students will be more competitive if they master math, science and technology.
How important is it for young children to learn a second language?
(If you want to see another opinion on this issue check out what Rick Badie had to say.)
