Ask Kelly Advice Column
Dear Kelly,
My son, Brody, is a high school freshman who has dyslexia. Learning to read and write in his first language, English, was such a challenge that we are worried about the foreign language requirement for graduating high school. Does he have to take a foreign language or are there alternatives?
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Thanks,
Sophie, a worried mother.
Dear Sophie,
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Thank you for writing to me with this question. I reached out to our local high school, Vista Ridge, and they sent me the following options that a student can do in fulfilling the foreign language requirement. I hope this helps!
Option 1: Learning in Another Country
If a student could pay a fee, learn a foreign language conversationally in another country. Two weeks in a foreign country of choice would provide an amazing learning opportunity! Scholarships could be available for those that would like this option but cannot afford it. Also, money could be saved by not hiring as many foreign language teachers, and that money could be used for these two week trips. Districts could also help to offset the cost of this full immersion experience.
Option 2: Keeping Foreign Language
Keep foreign language as an option but not a requirement. I believe learning a foreign language for a lot of people can be an overwhelmingly positive experience. Learning a foreign language in a classroom can be challenging but doable for those that are highly motivated and that have researched based effective instruction.
Option 3: Cultural Studies Class
A cultural studies class. This class could show and celebrate another culture by learning about that culture’s food, art, technology, history, politics, music, science contributions, dress, activities, and language. This class could be a great experience for those that want to learn about another culture but would like if this learning could be translated. Hearing another language could be a part of the learning process but without the pressure of trying to read, write, and speak concurrently. A student could potentially learn some of the language without that being the focus of the class.
I would suggest for you to talk to Brody about these options to decide what you both think works best for him. Good luck!
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-Kelly