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Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act
12/11/2023, 1:23 AM
Summary of Bill S 239
One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to fund initiatives that promote the teaching and learning of foreign languages in schools and universities. These grants would be awarded to educational institutions that demonstrate a commitment to expanding language education opportunities for students.
Additionally, the bill calls for the development of a national strategy for international and foreign language education, which would outline goals and priorities for improving language proficiency among Americans. This strategy would involve collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure that language education is a priority at all levels of the education system. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange programs in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the United States and other countries. It calls for increased funding for programs that facilitate student exchanges, language immersion experiences, and other opportunities for Americans to engage with foreign cultures. Overall, Bill 118 s 239 aims to strengthen international and foreign language education in the United States by providing support for language learning programs, promoting cultural exchange initiatives, and developing a national strategy for language education. By investing in language education, the bill seeks to prepare students for an increasingly globalized world and foster greater understanding and cooperation between nations.
Congressional Summary of S 239
Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act
This bill reauthorizes through FY2029 and otherwise revises international education programs. These programs provide grants to institutions of higher education and related entities to (1) enhance instruction in international and foreign language studies, and (2) promote international business skills and education.
First, the bill reauthorizes programs related to international and foreign language studies. Specifically, it extends (1) the Graduate and Undergraduate Language and Area Centers and Programs, which include the National Resource Centers program; (2) the Language Resource Centers; (3) the Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Programs; and (4) the American Overseas Research Centers.
Next, the bill reauthorizes the Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships program. It also revises the program to permit graduate students to receive a stipend for the beginning, intermediate, or advanced study of a foreign language related to the student's area of specialization.
Further, the bill extends the Technological Innovation and Cooperation for Foreign Information Access program. It also modifies the program, such as by (1) revising the types of available grants, and (2) allowing the Department of Education to establish a national database on international and foreign language education.
Finally, the bill reauthorizes programs related to international business skills and education. Specifically, it reauthorizes the Centers for Business Education program. It also reauthorizes the Education and Training program and otherwise makes changes to the program, including by (1) renaming the program; and (2) mandating certain program activities, such as the incorporation of specified programs and studies into professional education and technical training curricula.
