Chicago Public Schools Opens Handful Of New Language Programs

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) launched new dual language programs at Henry D. Lloyd Elementary, Little Village Elementary, and Edward E. Sadlowski Elementary, alongside world language programs at three additional schools. This initiative, part of a contract with the Chicago Teachers Union, seeks to enhance language education and meet the needs of a diverse student body, with 97% of Calmeca Academy's students identifying as Hispanic. Interim CPS CEO Macquline King stated that the programs empower students and bolster their literacy in multiple languages.

CPS currently operates 43 dual language programs and approximately 240 world language programs, including instruction in Mandarin, Arabic, and Spanish. The district plans to provide ongoing support, including professional development for teachers involved in these programs. This expansion responds to the challenges of serving English learners, especially in light of recent increases in migrant families. CPS aims to meet state bilingual education requirements while addressing a shortage of bilingual certified teachers. The evaluation process for new programs involved reviewing detailed proposals from interested schools to ensure adequate resources and planning.