Dual Language Education Programs in State Colleges in Montana

1. What is the role of state colleges in promoting Dual Language Education Programs?

Over the years, state colleges have played a crucial role in promoting and supporting Dual Language Education Programs. Here are some ways in which state colleges contribute to the development and success of these programs:

1. Funding and Grants: State colleges often provide funding and grants to schools and districts that want to implement or expand their Dual Language Education Programs. This financial support helps in covering the costs of hiring bilingual teachers, purchasing instructional materials, and organizing professional development opportunities for educators.

2. Curricula development: State colleges collaborate with schools and districts to develop curricula that aligns with state standards and best practices for Dual Language Education. They also provide guidance on selecting appropriate instructional materials, designing assessments, and developing language proficiency goals for students.

3. Professional development: State colleges offer training opportunities, workshops, seminars, and conferences for teachers and school administrators to enhance their knowledge and skills in Dual Language Education. These professional development activities focus on topics such as biliteracy instruction, sheltered instruction strategies, cross-cultural communication techniques, among others.

4. Research and evaluation: State colleges conduct research studies to evaluate the effectiveness of Dual Language Education Programs at different levels. This research provides valuable insights into program implementation, student outcomes, teacher effectiveness, community involvement, among other areas.

5. Advocacy and collaboration: State colleges play a crucial role in advocating for the value of bilingualism and multilingualism in education. They work closely with schools, communities, policymakers, and other stakeholders to promote the benefits of Dual Language Education Programs and build support for their implementation.

6. Partnership with local schools: Many state colleges have partnerships with local schools or districts to provide hands-on experiences for pre-service teachers studying in bilingual/multilingual programs. Through these partnerships, future educators gain practical experience working in real-world dual language classrooms.

Overall, state colleges play an essential role in promoting Dual Language Education Programs by providing resources, expertise, support services, research-based practices, and advocacy. Their involvement is critical in ensuring the success and sustainability of these programs, ultimately benefiting students, families, and communities.

2. How are state colleges in Montana integrating Dual Language Education Programs into their curriculum?


State colleges in Montana are integrating Dual Language Education Programs into their curriculum through various approaches, such as offering dual language education courses, creating bilingual teacher certification programs, and partnering with local school districts to provide opportunities for students to participate in language immersion programs.

1. Offering Dual Language Education Courses: Many state colleges in Montana have implemented courses that focus on dual language education theories, strategies, and practices. These courses are typically offered as electives or as part of an undergraduate or graduate degree program in education. Some examples include “Introduction to Dual Language Education” and “The Practice of Bilingual/ESL Education.”

2. Creating Bilingual Teacher Certification Programs: In order to meet the increasing demand for bilingual educators, some state colleges have developed bilingual teacher certification programs. These programs typically combine coursework on dual language education theories and methods with clinical experiences in bilingual classrooms. For example, the University of Montana offers a Post-Baccalaureate Certification Program for Bilingual Educators.

3. Partnering with Local School Districts: State colleges may also collaborate with local school districts to offer dual language education opportunities for students. For instance, the University of Montana partners with Missoula County Public Schools to offer a Spanish Immersion Teaching endorsement for current teachers and a K-12 Spanish Immersion Endorsement program for pre-service teachers.

4. Supporting Student Participation in Language Immersion Programs: Some state colleges provide support for students who wish to participate in language immersion programs at local schools or abroad through study abroad programs or exchange partnerships with other countries. This allows students to gain real-world experience teaching and working in a bilingual environment.

5. Incorporating Dual Language Education into Professional Development Programs: State colleges also offer professional development opportunities for practicing teachers interested in implementing dual language education strategies into their classrooms. These workshops or seminars cover topics such as designing culturally responsive lesson plans and promoting academic success for English Learners.

Overall, state colleges in Montana are taking a multi-faceted approach to integrating dual language education programs into their curriculum, providing students with a strong foundation in dual language education and preparing them for careers in the field.

3. What support and resources do state colleges provide for Dual Language Education Programs?


State colleges typically provide a variety of support and resources for Dual Language Education Programs. Some common examples include:

1. Professional Development: State colleges often offer professional development workshops, conferences, and courses designed specifically for educators in Dual Language Education Programs. These opportunities help teachers learn effective strategies and stay up-to-date with current research in the field.

2. Curriculum Materials: Many state colleges have partnerships with publishers or create their own curriculum materials specifically for Dual Language Education Programs. These materials are often aligned with state and national standards, and may be provided to schools free of charge.

3. Grants and Funding Opportunities: State colleges may offer grants or funding opportunities to help schools establish or expand Dual Language Education Programs. This can include funding for teacher training, curriculum development, or purchasing materials.

4. Research and Data-Driven Support: State colleges often conduct research on best practices in dual language education and use data to inform program design and implementation. They may also offer technical assistance to schools based on this research.

5. Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: State colleges frequently facilitate networking events and collaboration opportunities among educators working in Dual Language Education Programs. These can include regular meetings, online forums, or conferences where teachers can share ideas, strategies, challenges, and successes.

6. Bilingual Teacher Certification Programs: Some state colleges offer certification programs specifically for bilingual teachers. These programs provide training in language acquisition theories, methods for teaching English learners, strategies for working with culturally diverse students, and other relevant topics.

7. Multilingual Resources Center: Some state colleges have a dedicated center or resource library that provides access to books, materials, technology tools, and other resources that support Dual Language Education Programs.

8.Dual Language Parent Outreach: In addition to supporting educators, state colleges may also provide resources for parents of dual language students in order to promote understanding of the program model and their role in supporting their child’s education.

9.Technical Assistance: State colleges may offer technical assistance to schools implementing or maintaining Dual Language Education Programs. This can include support with program evaluation, data analysis, and troubleshooting challenges that may arise.

10.Legal Guidance: State colleges may also provide guidance on legal requirements and regulations related to Dual Language Education Programs, such as language access laws and policies for working with English learners.

4. How do state colleges in Montana select and train teachers for Dual Language Education Programs?


State colleges in Montana select and train teachers for Dual Language Education Programs through a variety of methods.

1. Recruitment: State colleges may actively recruit teachers who are fluent in the target language(s) and have experience teaching in a dual language setting. They may also reach out to local school districts to identify potential candidates.

2. Bilingual Program Endorsement: Teachers can acquire a Bilingual Program Endorsement through the state’s Office of Public Instruction, which requires specific coursework and language proficiency assessments. This endorsement is often preferred or required for teaching in a Dual Language Education Program.

3. Language Proficiency: State colleges require teachers to demonstrate fluency in the target language(s) they will be teaching in. This can be done through standardized language tests or through interviews and demonstrations of fluency.

4. Training: Many state colleges offer specialized training programs or courses specifically tailored to Dual Language Education Programs, which focus on instructional strategies, curriculum development, and cross-cultural communication.

5. Collaboration with School Districts: State colleges may work closely with school districts to develop and implement training programs for teachers already working in Dual Language Education Programs. This could include workshops, conferences, or mentoring programs where experienced dual language teachers can share their expertise with new teachers.

6. Immersion Experiences: Some state colleges may offer immersion experiences for teachers to improve their proficiency in the target language(s) and gain firsthand knowledge of the culture associated with it.

7. Continuing Education: State colleges may provide ongoing professional development opportunities for Dual Language Education Program teachers to stay current with best practices and continue building their skills.

Overall, state colleges strive to select and train highly qualified dual language educators who are not only linguistically proficient but also culturally competent and equipped with effective instructional strategies for teaching in a multilingual environment.

5. What is the impact of Dual Language Education Programs on student performance in state colleges in Montana?


There is very limited research available on the impact of Dual Language Education Programs on student performance in state colleges in Montana. However, some potential impacts may include:

1. Increased fluency and proficiency in two languages: Dual Language Education Programs typically provide students with an immersive learning experience in two languages, which can lead to increased language skills and competency. This improvement in language proficiency can benefit students in their academic coursework and potentially give them an advantage when applying for jobs or internships.

2. Improved academic achievement: Research suggests that students who participate in Dual Language Education Programs may perform better on standardized tests, especially in language arts and math. This could potentially translate to stronger academic performance and higher grades when these students enter state colleges.

3. Enhanced cognitive skills: There is evidence that bilingualism can enhance cognitive skills such as problem-solving, decision making, and critical thinking. This may allow dual language learners to excel academically and adapt more easily to the demands of college-level coursework.

4. Better cultural awareness and sensitivity: Participating in a Dual Language Education Program can expose students to different cultures, customs, and perspectives. This can help them develop a deeper understanding of diverse populations and contribute to a more inclusive learning environment in college.

5. Potential for bilingual employment opportunities: As more employers seek candidates with fluency in multiple languages, graduates of Dual Language Education Programs may have a competitive edge when job searching after college graduation.

Overall, while there is limited research specifically on the impact of Dual Language Education Programs on student performance in state colleges in Montana, there are many potential benefits that could positively impact students’ success at the college level.

6. How are language proficiency levels addressed within Dual Language Education Programs at state colleges in Montana?


Language proficiency levels within Dual Language Education Programs at state colleges in Montana are typically addressed through a combination of language assessments and placement tests. Many programs use the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Proficiency Guidelines to determine students’ language proficiency levels.

Some programs also rely on standardized tests, such as the STAMP test, which measures students’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in their second language. Other programs may administer a comprehensive language assessment that includes oral interviews and written tasks to gauge students’ proficiency.

Once students’ proficiency levels have been determined, they are placed into classes or tracks that correspond to their level of language ability. This allows for differentiated instruction and ensures that students are appropriately challenged in their second language learning.

In addition, schools may provide support services for English learners who need extra assistance in developing their academic English skills. These may include ESL classes, academic tutoring, or content-specific language support from bilingual educators.

Overall, the goal of addressing language proficiency levels is to ensure that all students in Dual Language Education Programs receive instruction and support tailored to their individual needs so they can successfully become bilingual and biliterate.

7. What measures are implemented to ensure equal access to Dual Language Education Programs at state colleges in Montana?


1. Publicity and information dissemination: The Montana State Department of Education actively promotes the Dual Language Education Programs (DLEP) at state colleges through various channels, such as social media, conference presentations, and webinars. This ensures that the programs are widely known and accessible to all students.

2. Outreach efforts: State colleges in Montana have designated staff members who are responsible for conducting outreach efforts to diverse communities and ensuring equal access to DLEP. These staff members work closely with local schools, community organizations, and families to promote the program and provide guidance on the application process.

3. Non-discriminatory admission policies: All state colleges in Montana have non-discriminatory admission policies that do not exclude students based on their race, ethnicity, or language background. This ensures that all students have an equal opportunity to enroll in DLEP.

4. Assessment tools in multiple languages: Some state colleges offer assessment tools in multiple languages to accurately gauge a student’s academic ability and potential for success in the Dual Language Education Program. This helps ensure that language barriers do not limit a student’s chances of admission.

5. Financial assistance: To further promote equitable access, state colleges offer financial assistance opportunities for students from low-income families or underrepresented backgrounds. This may include scholarships, grants, fee waivers, or other forms of financial support to help cover tuition costs.

6. English as a Second Language (ESL) support services: Students who are learning English as a second language can access ESL support services through their respective college’s Office of Multicultural Affairs or International Student Services department. These services help facilitate integration into the mainstream DLEP curriculum and provide additional support as needed.

7. Monitoring and evaluation: State colleges regularly monitor and evaluate the enrollment numbers for DLEP to ensure equal access for all students. If any disparity is identified, appropriate measures are taken to address it promptly.

8. How does student diversity play a role in the implementation of Dual Language education programs at state colleges in Montana?


Student diversity plays a crucial role in the implementation of Dual Language education programs at state colleges in Montana. With a growing number of diverse students, there is a need for educational programs that can cater to their unique needs and backgrounds. Here are some specific ways in which student diversity impacts the implementation of Dual Language education programs at state colleges in Montana:

1. Tailored curriculum: In order for Dual Language education to be successful, it is important for the curriculum to be tailored to the needs of diverse students. This means understanding their cultural backgrounds and learning styles and incorporating them into the curriculum.

2. Bilingual teaching staff: Student diversity in terms of language also highlights the need for a diverse teaching staff who can effectively communicate with students who are non-native English speakers. State colleges in Montana may need to recruit more bilingual teachers or provide training for current teachers on how to effectively teach in a dual language program.

3. Cultural sensitivity and inclusion: It is important for Dual Language education programs to foster a sense of inclusivity and cultural sensitivity among all students. This requires creating an environment where students from different backgrounds feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

4. Addressing language barriers: Student diversity brings with it different levels of proficiency in English and other languages, making it essential for dual language programs to have strategies in place to address these language barriers effectively.

5. Support for cultural identity: For non-native English speakers, attending college can often mean losing touch with their cultural identities as they adapt to a new culture and language. Dual Language education programs can play an essential role in providing support and resources that help students maintain their cultural identity while learning new skills.

6. Greater exposure and global perspective: The diverse student population at state colleges also provides an opportunity for students from different cultures to learn from one another, promoting greater exposure and understanding of different perspectives.

7. Recognizing academic strengths: Dual Language education recognizes that bilingualism is an asset and not a deficit. The implementation of these programs at state colleges in Montana can help foster a better understanding of the academic strengths that diverse students possess.

In summary, student diversity has a significant impact on the implementation of Dual Language education programs at state colleges in Montana. It requires the recognition and celebration of different cultures and languages, tailored curriculum, supportive resources, and a diverse teaching staff to effectively cater to the unique needs of these students.

9. What funding sources are available for the continuation and expansion of Dual Language Education programs at state colleges in Montana?


1. State Education Budget: The Montana state government allocates funding for education, which can be used to support Dual Language Education programs at state colleges. This can include funding for program development, teacher training, and resources.

2. Federal Grants: There are various federal grants available for promoting multilingual education and supporting English Language Learners (ELLs) in schools. State colleges can apply for these grants to fund their Dual Language Education programs.

3. Private Foundations: Private foundations such as the W.K Kellogg Foundation and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation offer grants and funding opportunities to promote diversity and multilingualism in education. State colleges can explore these options for funding their Dual Language Education programs.

4. Donations and Fundraising: State colleges can also raise funds through donations from individuals or organizations who support the cause of multilingual education. They can also organize fundraising events to solicit donations from the local community.

5. Partnerships with Community Organizations: State colleges can partner with local community organizations that have a vested interest in supporting dual language education. These organizations may be willing to contribute financially to the college’s program.

6. Corporate Sponsorship: Businesses that have a global presence or have an interest in developing a multilingual workforce may be interested in sponsoring Dual Language Education programs at state colleges.

7. Student Tuition: Some state colleges may charge tuition fees for their dual language programs, which can help cover the costs associated with running the program.

8. Alumni Donations: State colleges can reach out to alumni who have benefited from their Dual Language Education programs and encourage them to give back by donating towards the program’s continuation and expansion.

9. Scholarships: The state college could offer scholarships specifically for students enrolled in Dual Language Education programs, either funded by external donors or using college funds.

10. Can students receive college credit for participating in Dual Language education programs at state colleges in Montana?


Yes, it is possible for students to receive college credit for participating in Dual Language education programs at state colleges in Montana. This would depend on the specific program and policies of each individual college. It is recommended that students speak with their school counselors or contact the colleges they are interested in attending to learn more about their dual language credit policies.

11. How does participation in Dual Language education programs at state colleges benefit non-English speaking students’ academic achievement and future opportunities?


Participation in Dual Language education programs at state colleges can benefit non-English speaking students in several ways:

1. Bilingual Proficiency: Dual Language education programs provide students with the opportunity to become proficient in both their native language and English. This not only helps them communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds, but it also enhances their cognitive abilities and critical thinking skills.

2. Academic Achievement: Studies have shown that students who are bilingual tend to perform better academically compared to monolingual students. This is because learning a second language has been linked to improved memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

3. Access to Higher Education: Dual Language education programs at state colleges can open doors for non-English speaking students to pursue higher education. With fluency in both languages, these students may have increased options for scholarships, internships, and other opportunities that could lead to a successful college career.

4. Improved Job Prospects: In today’s globalized world, employers highly value candidates who are bilingual or multilingual. Participating in a Dual Language program can give non-English speaking students an edge in the job market and make them more competitive and marketable candidates.

5. Cultural Understanding: By learning alongside students from diverse backgrounds, non-English speakers gain a deeper understanding of various cultures and develop empathy towards others. This not only promotes cultural appreciation but also helps prepare them for future career opportunities requiring intercultural communication skills.

In summary, participation in Dual Language education programs at state colleges can greatly benefit non-English speaking students by improving their academic achievement, increasing their access to higher education and employment opportunities, and promoting cultural understanding and appreciation.

12. Are there any partnerships or collaborations between state colleges and local school districts for the development of dual language programs?

Yes, there are partnerships and collaborations between state colleges and local school districts for the development of dual language programs. Many state colleges offer teacher education programs, including programs specifically focused on bilingual and ESL education. These programs often have partnerships with local school districts, where future teachers can gain hands-on experience through practicum or student teaching placements in dual language classrooms. In some cases, state colleges may also collaborate with local districts to provide professional development opportunities for current teachers in dual language education. Additionally, some state colleges may work with local school districts to research and develop best practices for implementing effective dual language programs.

13. Are there any specialized resources or accommodations provided by state colleges to support students with disabilities within dual language education programs?


It is possible that some state colleges may offer specialized resources or accommodations for students with disabilities in dual language education programs. This could include bilingual support staff, adapted curriculum materials, and assistive technology. It would be best to contact the specific state college you are interested in applying to and inquire about their resources for students with disabilities in dual language programs.

14. Do students who graduate from dual language education programs at state colleges have higher employment opportunities compared to those who did not participate?


There is not enough data to make a general statement about the employment opportunities of students who graduated from dual language education programs at state colleges compared to those who did not participate. Factors such as the specific job market in the area, individual qualifications and skills, and job-seeking efforts all play a role in employment outcomes. It is possible that being bilingual and biliterate may provide an advantage in certain industries or jobs. However, more research would be needed to determine any significant differences in employment outcomes between these two groups.

15. How do student outcomes compare between dual language education programs offered at various State Colleges within Montana?


Unfortunately, there is not publicly available data specifically comparing the student outcomes of dual language education programs offered at different State Colleges in Montana. Each college may have its own program structure and implementation methods which could greatly impact student outcomes. Additionally, there may be limited data on student outcomes for these programs as they are not necessarily a common offering at State Colleges in Montana. Some individual colleges may have data on their own program’s outcomes but it would need to be collected directly from each institution.

16 What strategies do State Colleges use to promote multilingualism and multicultural understanding through dual language education programs?


1. Implementing Dual Language Education Programs: State Colleges offer dual language education programs where students are taught in both English and another language, usually the student’s native language. This promotes multilingualism by providing students with an opportunity to develop proficiency in two languages simultaneously.

2. Recruiting Bilingual Teachers: State Colleges actively recruit bilingual teachers who can facilitate the implementation of dual language education programs. These teachers serve as role models for students and promote multicultural understanding through their diverse backgrounds and experiences.

3. Partnering with Local Communities: State Colleges often partner with local communities to create a culturally rich learning environment for their dual language education programs. They may invite guest speakers from different cultural backgrounds or organize cultural events to celebrate and showcase diversity within the school community.

4. Incorporating Multicultural Content in Curriculum: State Colleges incorporate multicultural content into their curriculum to expose students to diverse perspectives and cultures. This helps students understand and appreciate different cultures, promoting multicultural understanding.

5. Encouraging Multilingual Students to Serve as Culture Ambassadors: Multilingual students are often encouraged to act as culture ambassadors within the school community. They can share their language skills and cultural knowledge with peers, fostering cross-cultural interactions and creating a more inclusive environment.

6. Offering Study Abroad Programs: Many State Colleges offer study abroad programs where students can immerse themselves in a different culture while studying. This provides students with hands-on experience of living in a different country, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of other cultures.

7. Celebrating Cultural Awareness Days/Events: State Colleges frequently organize cultural awareness days/events where students can learn about different cultures through food, music, dance, and other activities. These events allow for an exchange of ideas, promote tolerance, and encourage respect for diversity.

8. Providing Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers: To effectively implement dual language education programs that promote multilingualism and multicultural understanding, teachers need specific training on how to integrate these principles into their teaching. State Colleges provide ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their cultural competence.

9. Building a Diverse and Inclusive School Community: State Colleges strive to create a diverse and inclusive school community where students from different backgrounds feel welcomed and valued. This promotes multicultural understanding by fostering an environment of respect, empathy, and inclusivity.

10. Engaging Parents and Families: State Colleges recognize the role parents and families play in promoting multilingualism and multicultural understanding. They actively involve parents in school activities, such as parent-teacher conferences, cultural events, or language classes to encourage their support for dual language education programs.

17 Are there any ongoing research studies evaluating the effectiveness of dual language education programs offered at State Colleges within Montana?


There are currently no ongoing research studies specifically evaluating the effectiveness of dual language education programs at State Colleges in Montana. However, there is ongoing research on dual language education in general and how it impacts students’ academic and linguistic development. One recent study conducted by the Regional Educational Laboratory (REL) Appalachia examined the implementation and outcomes of dual language immersion programs in Virginia, which may provide insights applicable to other states such as Montana.

Additionally, the National Dual Language Education Consortium (NDLEC) conducts research on effective practices for implementing successful dual language programs at all levels of education, including higher education. Their findings can potentially inform the effectiveness of dual language programs offered at State Colleges in Montana.

Overall, there is a growing body of research on dual language education that can inform the evaluation of such programs at State Colleges in Montana. It would be beneficial for future research to specifically examine the implementation and outcomes of these programs within the state.

18. Are dual language education programs at State Colleges in Montana open to all students, regardless of their home language background?


Each State College sets its own admission criteria and policies. In general, dual language education programs are open to all students, but it ultimately depends on the specific state college’s policies and availability within the program. It is recommended to check with the individual state college for more information about their dual language education offerings.

19. How do state colleges handle challenges and barriers related to the implementation of Dual Language Education Programs?

State colleges handle challenges and barriers related to the implementation of Dual Language Education Programs in different ways. Some possible approaches they may take include:

1. Collaborating with school districts: State colleges can work closely with local school districts to understand their specific needs and challenges in implementing Dual Language Education Programs. This collaboration can lead to targeted support for teachers, resources, and other types of assistance.

2. Offering professional development: State colleges can provide professional development opportunities for teachers who are implementing or planning to implement Dual Language Education Programs. These training sessions can cover topics such as language acquisition theories, instructional strategies, and cultural competency.

3. Conducting research: State colleges often have education departments that conduct research on best practices for Dual Language Education Programs. This research can inform policies and help identify effective strategies for overcoming challenges.

4. Providing resources and materials: State colleges can share resources and materials – such as lesson plans, assessments, and instructional materials – with schools that are implementing Dual Language Education Programs.

5. Developing partnerships: State colleges can partner with community organizations, government agencies, or other institutions to provide additional support for Dual Language Education Programs. This may include grant funding, volunteer opportunities for students, or cultural events.

6. Addressing logistical barriers: State colleges can work with school districts to address logistical barriers that may hinder the successful implementation of Dual Language Education Programs – such as scheduling conflicts, transportation issues, or lack of appropriate classroom space.

7. Supporting parent involvement: State colleges may also offer workshops or resources for parents to help them understand the benefits of Dual Language Education Programs and how to support their children’s language development at home.

8. Advocating for policy changes: Lastly, state colleges can advocate for policy changes at the state level to promote and support Dual Language Education Programs – such as providing funding or offering incentives for schools to adopt these programs, ensuring equitable access for all students, or developing standards and guidelines for program implementation.

20. What goals and priorities does Montana have for the future development of Dual Language Education Programs in state colleges?


The state of Montana has the following goals and priorities for the future development of Dual Language Education Programs in state colleges:

1. Expansion of Dual Language Programs: The state aims to expand the availability and accessibility of Dual Language Education Programs in state colleges to serve a wider range of students, including those from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

2. Quality and Effectiveness: The priority is to ensure that Dual Language Programs are of high quality and effectively promote bilingualism, biculturalism, and biliteracy among students.

3. Support for Teachers: The state will provide support for teachers in Dual Language Education Programs through professional development opportunities, resources, and ongoing training to enhance their ability to deliver high-quality instruction.

4. Partnership with Communities: The state recognizes the importance of community involvement in the success of Dual Language Education Programs. Therefore, efforts will be made to build strong partnerships with local communities, families, and organizations to support program implementation.

5. Incorporation of Indigenous Languages: Montana values its diverse indigenous languages and aims to incorporate them into its Dual Language Education Programs as a way to preserve and promote these languages among younger generations.

6. Research and Evaluation: The state will continue to invest in research and evaluation efforts on Dual Language Education Programs to gather data on program effectiveness and make informed decisions about program improvement.

7. Identification and Recruitment of Bilingual Teachers: Montana recognizes the need for bilingual teachers in order to deliver effective dual language instruction. Efforts will be made to identify potential candidates across the state and encourage them to pursue teaching careers.

8. Inclusion of all Students: The goal is for all students, regardless of their background or linguistic abilities, have access to Dual Language Education Programs if they choose. This includes English learners as well as native English speakers who wish to develop their proficiency in a second language.

9. Sustainability: Montana is committed to sustaining its investment in Dual Language Education Programs for the long-term future. This includes securing funding, building capacity, and maintaining program standards to ensure the stability and growth of these programs.

10. Continuous Improvement: The state will continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of Dual Language Education Programs and make necessary adjustments to improve program quality and outcomes for students.