The Teaching of Foreign Languages

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) is the leading national organization dedicated to the improvement and expansion of the teaching and learning of all languages. For the 2007-08 school year, 18.5% of public school students from prekindergarten to 12th grade were enrolled in language classes. The organization represents more than 9,000 foreign language educators and administrators across the country. From the development of Proficiency Guidelines, to its leadership role in the creation of national standards, ACTFL focuses on issues that are critical to the growth of both the profession and the individual teacher.

In order to elevate second language instruction to a national priority, The Sheridan Group is partnering with ACTFL to build a widespread constituency. Parents of young children understand that language proficiency and cultural competency are critical skills for the 21st Century. Together, ACTFL and The Sheridan Group are building a constituency of teachers, administrators, principals, and parents to advocate for all students being proficient in English and at least one other language by the time they graduate from High School.