Cuts hinder teaching of cultural competency

As the Iowa City Community School District faces the latest round of cuts following yet another budget shortfall, it is disappointing to see that areas such as foreign language and music must come under the gun. This calls into question the district's role in emphasizing the importance of cultural competency in education.

Denying children the opportunity to participate in early music and foreign language courses impedes the development of a culturally competent society. Music and foreign language courses not only teach children to sing, play an instrument or speak another language; they teach children different forms of communication, as well as an appreciation of other cultures.

They also help to strengthen and support skills and concepts learned in other core classes such as math and language arts. According to a study by the National Research Council in 2007, 'A pervasive lack of knowledge about foreign cultures and foreign languages threatens the security of the United States, as well as its ability to compete in the global marketplace and produce an informed citizenry.”

Of course, securing additional funding from the state should be a priority. Two percent increases three out of four years, with no increase the other year is simply not acceptable. It is our responsibility as residents to reach out to our state leaders for the sake of our children's education.

Kari Dudley

Swisher