May2003

Dear

I am writing to express my concern about the future of foreign language education for Oklahoma students. The coming emphasis on educational funding in Oklahoma is testing in grades 3-8 in the areas of math and reading. My concern is the possible elimination of the teaching and learning of foreign languages in Oklahoma schools.

The current budget crisis has already done irreparable damage to exemplary programs across the state. These programs were implemented as a result of H.B. 1017which required, among many other things, that “all students… must study… languages….” This placed foreign languages in the core curriculum and was a MAJOR step forward for Oklahoma. Many Oklahoma schools have implemented the grades 3-8 language requirement with local district funds. The emphasis on testing mentioned above will inevitably result in the elimination of elementary and middle school foreign language programs. Teachers and administrators will have no choice but to focus their time on teaching what is tested and ONLY what is tested.

As a concerned citizen and voter, I would like to request that you:

•Budget adequate financial resources to establish and improve second language programs statewide

•Support and fund professional development programs for second language teachers

•Support and fund curriculum development projects carried out by second language teachers

•Establish policies that promote the study of second languages at all levels by all students

•Support research on the effectiveness of various models and practices for second language programs

Throughout history, in all formal educational endeavors, the study of other languages and cultures has been a key and unquestioned component. Most psychological studies show that good language study enhances parts of the brain not enhanced by other kinds of endeavors. These are but a few of the reasons why the study of a foreign language is crucial to our Oklahoma students.

Thank you.

Sincerely