Contact: Beverley Wheeler, (202) 741-0888

The District of Columbia State Board of Education (DCSBOE) is requesting public comments on the new World Languages Standards. The DCSBOE received a presentation on the new standards Wednesday, August 27, 2008. The new World Languages Standards have been enhanced by input from educators in the field and from further research to embellish the previous standards.

“When you have the opportunity to travel and struggle in another language it gives you a level of sensitivity for people here who are trying to live and work without a complete grasp of the language. I believe that language learning can produce the same sensitivity in our students,“ stated Vice President Lisa Raymond.

The public comment period begins Friday, August 29, 2008 and runs for 30 days. It concludes close of business Tuesday, September 30, 2008.

Constituents who wish to review the World Languages Standards and post comments, please go to the comments page located on the DC State Board of Education website's comment page before the close of business Tuesday, September 30, 2008.

The DC State Board of Education also received an update on the Office of the State Superintendent of Education’s Family Expo 2008. This activity is a cooperative project by community, family, education, and government agencies to network families and organizations that can lend assistance for familial involvement. The Expo is Saturday, September 13, 2008 from 9 am to 5:30 pm at McKinley Tech High School.