Schools prepare to cut foreign language classes
By Jennifer Gollan/Bay Citizen
As one of the city’s most sought after public high schools, George Washington High School in San Francisco has long enjoyed a reputation for ambitious foreign language programs, helping students gain admission to prestigious universities. But that distinguished track record may be threatened by even deeper state budget cuts. The 2,200-student school may cut some of its advanced offerings in foreign languages next school year. There will be no third-year of Spanish, French or any other language that the school currently offers. Across the Bay Area, school districts including San Francisco Unified, Oakland Unified and Cupertino Union, are sending pink slips to foreign language teachers. Parents and teachers worry that eliminating foreign language courses will make it more difficult for students to gain admission to more competitive schools. (more…)