Messenger-Inquirer – Karen Mallonee
“…we are looking at a future that is changing more rapidly than it has in any time in history…With these fast-paced worldwide changes comes a demand for greater knowledge of each other…The necessity of learning a second, third or even fourth language is evident when we realize our job is not about getting students comfortable with where they are now, but where they will be in 20, 30 or 40 years…They will need a world-class education with not a local focus, but a global focus with knowledge of interconnected world economics, markets, careers and cultures. It requires a diversity of thought and a deeper understanding of the 7 billion inhabitants of this earth. Approaching other cultures is like looking through a door into another world. We can reject that world as foreign by slamming the door shut, or we can open our minds as we embrace the uniqueness and richness of other languages. The study of a world language engages critical thinking skills, as well as enhancing creativity, listening skills and memory while expanding one’s view of the world…As parents and educators, we need to emphasize to our children the vast opportunities that exist for those who choose to study globally with world language acquisition…”(more)