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.

Back to School Considerations

• Department of Health (DOH) K-12 Schools Fall 2020-2021 Guidance (updated)
• ACTFL Reopening guidelines
• Under Washington state law, World Language Education is part of basic education and a requirement for high school graduation. World Language Education is part of a well-rounded education in Federal law.   OSPI is issuing an emergency temporary rule change to WAC 392-410-135 from August 24, 2020 to December 24, 2020.  Please see Laws and Regulations page.
• World Language Education is an equity issue. According to ACTFL, the pandemic has shone a bright light on the unacceptable racial and economic inequalities that exist in our society, resulting in disproportionately negative effects on Black, Indigenous, and other people of color in the U.S., as well as those coming from low-income households. Not surprisingly, our language learners have been adversely affected by these same inequalities.
• ACTFL has also provided a list of resources for World Language educators to aid them in their virtual and distance learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

• State Board of Education (SBE) FAQs: Guidance from SBE on Washington state world languages.
• OSPI World Language (WL) FAQs: General guidance about world languages.

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.

Competency 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.

Seal of Biliteracy

The Washington State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes public high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one or more world languages in addition to English.

Dual Language 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 Learning 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

Find out about languages in Washington state.

Laws/Regulations

Find out about current laws and regulations regarding world languages.

Resources

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

Newsletters

Explore past issues of the World Languages Newsletters!