How to Grow FL Programs

Foreign Language Week (see 2010 information below) is a great way to focus attention and promote excellent foreign language programs. Let administrators, community members, and students know about the exciting things that are happening in foreign language classes-- for example: new ideas garnered at conferences that were successfully implemented (to encourage support for future conference attendance); results of proficiency testing (solid data to show program effectiveness); awards and recognition of students, teachers, programs; field trips, travel abroad; service projects, etc.

Often we announce events as they happen, but it is powerful to collect everything and present it at one time. Be proactive! Get your students involved with letters to newspapers, posters, a special program/celebration, etc.! The Vista contest (described below) may result in some excellent promotional videos for use during Foreign Language Week. It is difficult to cut or downsize well-known, well respected programs.