Chinese Language Initiatives

China's rise as a global superpower means there is an urgent need to increase the number of Americans who are proficient in Chinese.

The features on this website include making the case for starting Chinese and other critical language programs, as well as practical tools on how to create and sustain language programs that lead to greater proficiency.

This section also features articles and videos on best teaching practices, and best ways to create high-impact school-to-school exchange programs. These lessons are drawn from schools around the country who've done it.

Read on!

Nikada/iStockphoto, Jimmy Wang/NYTimes.com, Fan Kuan

Global Competence for Chinese Language Teachers

Using pandas and dumplings in your classroom? Think again. more

2012 National Chinese Language Conference

The largest gathering of Chinese language teachers in the United States. more
(Casey Lynn)

Asia Society Confucius Classrooms Network

100 model Chinese language programs with great ideas to share. more

How to Build School Partnerships

Practical advice for teachers and school leaders on how to create a meaningful school partnerships. more

How to Meet the High Demand for Chinese Teachers

There's a short supply of Chinese teachers--and a very high demand. Read the recommendations on how to bridge the gap. more
(Image courtesy: Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School)

Chinese Language Learning in the Early Grades

A new handbook on how to create and sustain elementary school Chinese immersion programs. more