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Ten months ago I sat down to quickly write up some thoughts I’d had about the differing motivations parents had for choosing Mandarin immersion, with the idea that  understanding those motivations might lessen some tensions we felt in our program. That quick email grew into the 7,000 word essay I’m posting here. It’s also launched…

On Bilingualism and Mandarin in Minnetonka, Minnesota Pacific Memories and Visions April 6, 2012 – Ray Tsuchiyama Read comments | Post a comment  I had no choice in being exposed to bilingualism, since my parents spoke both Japanese and English. Although I don’t remember, my first language was most likely Japanese, as my late mother spoke to…

Mar Vista: Language immersion programs seen as nexus in local schools’ pipeline By Gary Walker Despite the challenges with charter schools, news of alleged sexual misconduct at Miramonte Elementary School and a looming budget deficit, there are bright spots within the Los Angeles Unified School District, as some schools are engaging in innovative academic planning.…

By SINDYA N. BHANOO Published: April 2, 2012 Learning a foreign language is never easy, but contrary to common wisdom, it is possible for adults to process a language the same way a native speaker does. And over time, the processing improves even when the skill goes unused, researchers are reporting. Enlarge This Image Chris…

This is from NPR. And please note that it was published on APRIL FIRST… === April 1, 2012 For years, New York parents have been applying to preschools even before their youngsters are born. That’s not new, but the approach one prestigious pre-school on the Upper West Side is. At the Porsafillo Preschool Academy, all…

Immersion program gets an A Kindergartners busy learning Chinese BY MARSHA SILLS Acadiana bureau April 03, 2012 “All research shows that especially in a school environment it takes a minimum of eight years to learn a foreign language to the point that you won’t forget it.” Nicole boudreaux, lead immersion teacher LAFAYETTE — Jade Carter already…

Chapel Hill-Carrboro parents: Don’t end Chinese language program BY TOM HARTWELL, CORRESPONDENT CHAPEL HILL – A report that recommends suspending dual English-Chinese language classes met strong criticism and disappointment from parents and students involved in the program.The Mandarin Chinese dual language program got a ringing show of support from than 100 parents and students at Thursday’s…