Two languages serve students well
Re “Say adios to restrictions on bilingual learning: Prop. 58 could boost Fresno schools” (online Nov. 19): The implementation of Proposition 58 has been long overdue for our country. For some reason, there exists a fear that being bilingual produces some sort of cognitive deficit.
The truth is that we are falling far behind other nations that have continuously implemented dual-immersion programs in their educational system. There exists no evidence that claims that learning two languages has any impact on the cognitive and psychological development of children and it has taken us long enough to realize that.
As a child who was a part of a dual-immersion program, I have been able to benefit educationally and professionally all while seeing no negative consequences. This is a big step forward for California, and I anticipate that other states will continue to do the same.
It is time to push away the misconception that learning two languages will hinder the development of children and pay more attention to the research that proves otherwise.
Ismael Nunez, Merced
This story was originally published December 6, 2016 at 3:06 PM with the headline "Two languages serve students well."