hebrewpublic.org

Why Hebrew?

Today, public schools across the country offer dual language programs in a wide range of languages, including Chinese, Spanish, Greek, and Arabic. These programs—which have grown largely in response to demands from local communities—are a proven way of getting students more engaged in their studies, building literacy, raising academic achievement, and preparing children to live and thrive in a global, interdependent environment. The incorporation of an intensive focus on a foreign language in a school’s curriculum supports positive evidence-based learning and developmental outcomes in students.

There is ample research that points to the advantages children gain when they study a foreign language—particularly if they begin at an early age—not the least of which is their development as individuals who are bilingual and bi-literate. The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) has documented that language learning

supports academic achievement
provides cognitive benefits to students
affects attitudes and beliefs about language learning and other cultures

Additional research shows that language learners develop a more positive attitude toward the target language and/or the speakers of that language, as well as speakers of languages other than their native language. In their groundbreaking work Cultural Proficiency: A Manual for School Leaders (Second Edition), Lindsey, Robins, and Terrell conclude that “educational leaders who are successful in creating culturally proficient learning communities will enable students to play vital roles wherever they go in the global community.”

In addition to these numerous benefits, the study of Hebrew offers several particular advantages:

The renaissance of a language and its role in the creation of culture and society is deeply instructive.

Hebrew is a language that has gone through a profound revitalization over the past century and a half from a classical to a living language. The modernization and secularization of the language and its transformation to a spoken, cultural medium has been central to the development of a secular Hebrew speaking society and culture in the land of Israel. This unique historical occurrence offers meaningful opportunities for students to explore the evolution and purposes of language and its function in building and sustaining communities worldwide.

Hebrew also powerfully exemplifies the capacity of language to unite people across time and space.

Prior to its revitalization, Hebrew served as a connector of communities around the world. The study of Hebrew language, therefore, is a valuable vehicle for encouraging students’ development as global citizens and fostering students’ commitments to dialogue and understanding.

Hebrew is becoming increasingly relevant in the world of international business, mastery of the Hebrew language has pragmatic benefits as Israel’s influence in the world markets continues to expand.

Israel is only second to the United States in having the greatest number of companies listed on the NASDAQ exchange, recognized worldwide as an indicator of the cutting-edge of industry developing the technology of the future. Further, Israel is becoming an increasingly significant American economic partner and player in the global economy. In light of Israel’s growing influence and prominence, fluency in Hebrew and modern secular Israeli culture is a profound asset for students’ futures.

Why Hebrew?

The renaissance of a language and its role in the creation of culture and society is deeply instructive.

Hebrew also powerfully exemplifies the capacity of language to unite people across time and space.

Hebrew is becoming increasingly relevant in the world of international business, mastery of the Hebrew language has pragmatic benefits as Israel’s influence in the world markets continues to expand.

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