NYCPS Speaks Your Language
Dear Families and Colleagues,
Did you know that New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) families communicate in more than 180 languages, and that 44 percent of our students use a language other than English at home?
We are committed to ensuring that all families—no matter their language—have access to information about our school system and their children’s education. We have an entire office, the Office of Language Access, dedicated to this commitment—from translating school documents to providing interpretation at meetings and events (including our Conversations with the Chancellor series). I encourage you to learn more about the different translation and interpretation services provided by NYCPS.
We are also committed to fostering multilingualism in our students and our school communities—because the ability to communicate in multiple languages is a lifelong superpower.
Our Office of Multilingual Learners offers a wide range of programs that support students learning a new language and students maintaining their home and heritage languages. These include:
- Bilingual education programs in 13 languages;
- World language programs in 19 languages; and
- Advanced Placement language courses in seven languages.
This school year, approximately 220 high schools are offering the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, which recognizes high school graduates who are proficient in multiple languages. Students who earn this distinction are eligible for credits at 12 CUNY colleges.
Multilingualism is an essential skill in today's interconnected world, and at NYCPS, we celebrate the many languages our students and families use every day.
In partnership,
Kamar H. Samuels
Chancellor