Dr. Lynn Rauch
Superintendent
Schaumburg School District #54
Schaumburg, Illinois
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Text Transcript
Rauch: We have dual language programs in our district, as well as bilingual programs. Dual language programs—where you learn Spanish or you learn English at the same time—are very beneficial. But the best thing that happens to dispel, to dispel bigotry and to build support is when you have parents learning at the same time. So in our schools we do dual language for parents in the evening, the parents of students that are experiencing it during the day. And there's nothing more rewarding than to see the Spanish-speaking parent being able to speak English at the end of that time. But more importantly, the English speaking parent understanding the Spanish culture, being able to appreciate it because we always find then—what? That differences are few, likenesses are many. And I think it's so important that we promote that. If we don't, we will not have all parents supporting all children.