English Language Learners

Heritage Languages

As this nation faces a critical shortage of adults with proficiency in languages other than English, we need to develop our own rich linguistic resources, the languages spoken in communities across the United States. CAL and the National Foreign Language Center have joined forces in an effort to overcome the neglect of heritage languages in the United States and to help U.S. schools recognize and develop the heritage language resources of this country.

Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages
CAL provides leadership for the Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages with a goal of promoting the conservation and development of the heritage language resources of this country as part of a larger effort to educate citizens who can function professionally in English and other languages. The Alliance recognizes that the United States has a critical need for individuals who have high proficiency in both English and one or more additional languages. To meet this need, the Alliance promotes information exchange, research, and policy development.

New! Visit the newly revamped Alliance Web site.

Profiles of Heritage Language Programs
In accordance with the Alliance’s goal of increasing information sharing, CAL is compiling profiles of heritage language programs across the United States. Profiles of community-based, K–12, and higher education programs are available on the Web. Read program profiles.

Please complete a profile of your heritage language program and help us build this useful resource. Create a profile.

Publications and Resources

Heritage Languages in America:  Preserving a National Resource
Heritage Languages in America outlines what needs to be done to help heritage language speakers develop their languages for use in academic and professional arenas. Read more.

Browse more online and print resources on the newly revamped Heritage Languages Alliance Web site.