ERIC Number: ED126722
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1976-May-3
Pages: 11
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
The Federal Commitment to Bilingual Education.
Bell, T. H.
Noting the importance of cultural diversity in American society and of the role of bilingual-bicultural education in maintaining such diversity, this paper discusses the commitment of the Federal government to quality and equality in education as related to linguistic minorities. Legislation such as the Bilingual Education Act and the Lau vs. Nichols decision is discussed, as well as implementation and action taken to ensure that local school districts comply with the law. Specific Federal initiatives to this end include the establishment of general assistance centers and the providing of grants by the Office of Education's Division of Equal Educational Opportunity. Federal aid has been provided in the areas of research, teacher education and curriculum development. A study of four exemplary projects was undertaken, and project information packages are being developed as a result, to help new or existing projects. Funds were distributed for teacher training. The scope of the training activities is outlined. Nine Materials Development Centers and three Dissemination-Assessment Centers are supported by the Office of Bilingual Education and service twelve languages. Most recent educational legislation is committed to helping bilingual learners. The role of parents as educators is seen as crucial as Federal programs in the success of bilingual-bicultural education. (CLK)
Descriptors: Biculturalism, Bilingual Education, Cultural Differences, Curriculum Development, Educational Legislation, English (Second Language), Federal Aid, Federal Government, Instructional Materials, Language Instruction, Language of Instruction, Language Research, Resource Materials, Teacher Education
Publication Type: Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: N/A
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Laws, Policies, & Programs: Bilingual Education Act 1968; Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title VII
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A