In this week’s message, Gov. Jack Markell (D-Delaware) is touting the success of educating Delaware children in different languages for part of the school day.

Established two years ago, the world language immersion program launched with Spanish and Chinese options beginning as early as kindergarten.

Markell says the results have been phenomenal.

“More than 800 of our youngest students can talk about their school day in more than one language. By next year, more than 1,500 will be able to do so and nearly all of the students’ parents have agreed that our seven Spanish and three Chinese programs enrich their child’s education.”

He notes that with a more global economy, speaking two languages offers a distinct advantage for those who are able to.

Earlier this week, Markell renewed a partnership with the Spanish government that sends teachers to staff those programs and offers Delaware educators a chance to teach in Europe.