The parents that have spearheaded recent dual-language programs, some of whom provide testimonials in the case studies featured on this website, value the benefits of bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism. They ask that schools help foster multilingual competencies and encourage new language acquisition as early as possible, preferably through immersive programs. Some of these parents are also motivated by a strong desire to sustain their linguistic heritage and ask that schools place value on their children’s heritage language and culture. As school authorities reconstruct bilingual education so that it serves more children and meets new objectives, the aim of this website is to empower parents to make a difference by forming initiatives and establishing new dual-language programs. This would be a huge benefit for any society whose citizens are willing to open their minds to the world—the world of others—by mastering languages and discovering new cultures. The Bilingual Revolution tells the story of a bottom-up, grassroots approach conducted through the efforts of parents that positively transformed schools and communities in unprecedented ways.
ITALIAN
Summoning the Community: Three Attempts for One Italian Program
GERMAN
Strategic Minds: The Story of the German Dual-Language Initiative
RUSSIAN
A Tale of Two Boroughs: Russian in Harlem and Brooklyn
FRENCH
The Domino Effect: Multiplying French Programs
ARABIC
Overcoming Prejudice: The City’s Arabic Dual Language Programs
POLISH
Celebrating Culture: The Polish Community’s Language Program
SPANISH
Paving the Way: The Pioneers of Spanish Dual-Language Education
CHINESE
High Achievers: The High School for Dual Language & Asian Studies