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.

Lead with Languages

This is the year to Lead with Languages! The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) encourages all interested parties to view this video and advocate for languages.

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.