By Tom Forcella
Editor’s note: Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Superintendent Tom Forcella issued the following comment to the community regarding the district’s dual-language program.
As many parents are aware, a priority of the school board was to “recommend a clear direction for second language instruction for all students, including but not limited to the dual language program (in context with the ESL program), and prepare to implement changes in 2012-2013.” The board extended the priority at their February planning retreat by one year. Recently, an administrative committee charged with recommending a direction for the Spanish and Chinese dual-language programs made two recommendations that have caused significant controversy. These two committee recommendations were:
1. To begin to phase out the Chinese Dual Language Program due to issues with sustainability of the program; and
2. To create a dual-language magnet school at the elementary level.
The Administrative Team Report contains significant background information, data and a rationale for the recommendations. The content of the report has been debated over the last several weeks in a number venues. The purpose of this “Superintendent’s Comment” is not to become immersed in the debate but rather to provide information with regard to the current status of these two programs.
It is important to note that all dual-language programs will continue as usual while we conduct community meetings and engage in further review and revision of the initial report. Until the school board decides otherwise we are moving forward to fill open positions and prepare for the 2012-13 school year with both dual-language programs functioning in much the same manner as they have this year. The district strongly encourages families interested in either Chinese or Spanish dual language to submit applications for the upcoming lottery by the May 31 deadline in order to be considered for enrollment in Fall 2012.
It is our hope that a final decision as to the short-term and long-term direction of the dual-language programs will be made prior to the close of the academic year. The school board is scheduled to initially consider a recommendation at their May 17 meeting.
Finally, as we continue the dialogue about the two dual-language programs, I urge everyone to listen to concerns and ideas and be open to possibilities. It is often the case that, when there is a crisis, opportunities arise. As a learning community, it is important that we work together to create the best possible learning environment for all of our children. Thank you for listening and assisting in our decision-making.
Tom Forcella is superintendent of Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools.