World Languages

Overview

World language programs in Connecticut public schools include Spanish, French, Latin, Italian, German, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Greek, and American Sign Language. Research has shown that language learning enhances students’ problem-solving skills and creative thinking capacity, and improves verbal and spatial abilities, long- and short-term memory function and attitudes toward the language and culture being learned (ACTFL Guiding Principles, Benefits of Language Learning). 

Connecticut schools and districts offer and recognize multiple pathways to proficiency. Early language learning experiences, such as quality elementary school world language programs and dual-language programs, positively impact literacy in both students’ first languages and their language(s) of study, scores on standardized tests in other subject areas, and students’ comfort level with cultural differences (ACTFL Position Statement, Early Language Learning).  

Programs that plan for students to start as early as possible and continue a sequence of regular language study for as long as possible produce the highest levels of proficiency. Middle and high school students can study languages in a variety of settings, from school-year programs to weekend or heritage programs. At school, students who already have proficiency in language(s) other than English should have opportunities to maintain and enhance their skills in upper-level language classes or classes for heritage and native speakers. School districts should find ways to recognize student achievement and learning in all language programs. All students deserve the ability to pursue their language interests and have their resulting proficiency skills recognized.  

The Connecticut State Seal of Biliteracy has been established to recognize students who have achieved proficiency in English and at least one other language. The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes the value of students’ academic efforts, the tangible benefits of being bilingual and biliterate and prepares students to be 21st-century global citizens in a multicultural, multilingual world. The Seal of Biliteracy acknowledges that mastery of two or more languages is a valuable asset for both individuals and their communities. Also, the Seal of Biliteracy provides recognition to English Language/Multilingual Learners (EL/MLs) for the great value of developing English and maintaining their primary language. (Connecticut Seal of Biliteracy Guidelines, September 2017)  

World Language Listserv:  
The World Language Listserv is an email distribution list aimed at facilitating communication through the sharing of information.  

To Subscribe to the SDE World Languages listserv, please send an email from the email address you wish to receive notices to. 

  • The email should be sent to; listserv@list.ct.gov. 
  • Please remove all text from the body in your email, including your contact information. 
  • In the body of your email please type; Subscribe SDE_World Languages (subscriber name) and then send. Subscriber name example; first name last name. 

CSDE Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Publications

EdSight - Interactive data portal for Connecticut’s public districts, schools, and programs. For current data on World Language programs in Connecticut schools, please use our EdSight Portal.
Course Enrollments by Subject

Additional Resources