World Languages

Learning to communicate in languages of the world helps students in Washington become global citizens, ready for life in the interconnected world of the 21st century. 

Learning Standards
Washington state has adopted the national Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the 21st Century as our World Languages K-12 Learning Standards.

Assessments
Schools in Washington state are using a variety of assessments to measure students’ developing language proficiency.

Competency-Based Credits
Students in Washington may be able to earn high school credits for a world language that they know based on demonstrating proficiency in the language.

Dual Immersion
Students in these programs receive content-based instruction in two languages in order to become proficient and literate in both languages, while also meeting high academic standards in all subject areas.

Early Language Experiences
Washington schools that receive state funding for full day kindergarten are required to provide experiences in a world language other than English.

Languages in Washington State
What languages are taught in Washington? How can I become a world language teacher? Find answers to these and other questions.

Laws/Regulations
Find out about current laws and regulations regarding world languages.

Resources and Links
Link to national and state language associations, centers, and organizations, as well as information about grant funding for languages.

Sign up for e-mail lists World Language Announcements Receive e-mails one to two times per month with announcements of interest to school districts, administrators, and language teachers. Subscribe | View a sample Dual Immersion E-mail List Receive e-mails and updates related to dual language (two-way and one-way), full and partial immersion programs in our state and beyond. Subscribe World Languages Update April 2012 (PDF) World Languages Update January 2012 (PDF) World Languages Update October 2011 (PDF)