Why Study a Foreign Language?

Just a few months ago, our country celebrated a historic moment. Hooray for America!!, we have come a long way. We nominated our first African American president. We should indeed celebrate this major milestone; however we still have a lot of work to do. I am very saddened that in schools across America academics is not as important as sports. More importantly, the study of a foreign language is not a top priority. How are we to stay abreast globally and culturally if we do not even make an attempt to expand our horizons?

Most European students study a least two foreign languages during their high school years. Needless to say, I am a very strong proponent for the study of any foreign language because there is overwhelming amount of research supporting how the study of a foreign can help a student do better in all other subjects.

We must be mindful of the sobering realities: Our children's economic and civic opportunities should not be determined by the color of their skin or wealth of their parents. We must provide our children with much rigor. we need to challenge them academically. I am so very proud of Barack and Michelle Obama not because they are black, but because of what they have accomplished academically. The Obama's in my opinion represents the very best of what America is all about. The land of opportunity. I for one, am a living example of what it means to take rigor to the next level. I came to this country when I was ten years old, learned English in six months, went to college and by the time I graduated I was fluent in four languages.

AMERICA, I LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH!!, you have given me so much. Twenty four years ago I made a decision to give back to America by becoming a teacher. I have dedicated my life to teaching American youths the joy of expanding one's horizons through the study of French and Spanish. I have taken my students on many trips to France and Spain so they can really experience the language and culture.

We must continue to provide many opportunities for our children, we must find a way to teach our children that hard work is a good thing. We must never take the easy way out. Rigor is my favorite word because it exemplify success is around the corner if you are willing to give it your all.

America, you are one of a kind! Let's make this century the very best ever by making major strides to become fluent in at least one foreign language. Our children's future depends on it and lastly, our children will benefit greatly. They will have the tools to compete in this ever changing and challenging global world.