Increase Diversity and Integration

Dual language programs are a powerful tool to increase racial and socioeconomic diversity in schools. This is critical in and of itself because all students do better when student and teacher body is diverse. For example, by implementing a dual language program at Houston Elementary DCPS in the Deanwood community, families who previously would not have considered the school are now lining up to enroll their kids due to the high demand and low supply for dual language programs. The net effect is that the socioeconomic diversity that exists in most of our neighborhoods gets translated to our neighborhood public school.

However, the most important integration effect of bilingual education happens outside of schools and goes beyond achievement.

A correctly implemented dual language program puts two languages and cultures on the same level. There is not one form of government, one way of celebrating family, one term to define love. There are multiple options, there are multiple ways of behaving, there are multiple places where life can be imagined. It give us perspective and makes us into more tolerant and empathetic adults. In best case scenarios it also leads to families of different socioeconomic and racial groups working together to support their children on an equal footing.

Increasing linguistic and cultural competence in all ages of learning allows District residents to feel empowered not threatened by diversity. In an environment where different factions of the District often see each other with suspicion, increased understanding of the cultural and linguistic differences and similarities, is a powerful way to strengthen community throughout the District.