Bilingual Education Programs Expansion: New York City Plans To Open 38 Bilingual Programs

Bilingual education programs are essential in helping students learn different languages and cultures. Fortunately, New York City is planning to expand the city's bilingual education programs for students.

Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña will unveil the plan to open 38 bilingual education programs at city schools starting this September, NY Daily News reports. This great expansion include new bilingual education programs that teach Arabic, Chinese, Creole, French, Haitian, Polish and Spanish. English will also be taught in these classes.

EXCLUSIVE: NYC to unveil big expansion of bilingual education programs in schools - New York… https://t.co/M03rJoMtVe

— NYC Deals (@deals4nyc) April 5, 2016

Students who will enter these bilingual education programs will study traditional academic subjects like English, math and science along with the different foreign languages. "These new bilingual programs will give students the foundation to succeed in the classroom and in the job market," Fariña explains. Approximately 1,200 kids are going to enroll for the new bilingual education programs, according to New York City education officials. Teachers who will lead the classes will be provided with training and resources.

.@JohnKingatED to CABE in California: The Importance of Bilingual Education https://t.co/jUR29BIjf2 #langchat pic.twitter.com/jkZpjs1UWE — ACTFL (@actfl) March 28, 2016

An estimated $1 million in federal funds will be used for the bilingual education programs expansion which builds on the 40 similar programs started back in 2015. Port Richmond High School principal Timothy Gannon told NY Daily News that the expansion is an opportunity to celebrate different cultures together.

Bilingual education programs provide several benefits for the students. These programs can help students improve their academic performance due to a better grasp of language; adapt easily when going to another country; and appreciate and understand other cultures, ASCD shares.