Gossett presents NYCPS multilingual learner data
Gossett says 31% of 3K students and 34% of pre-K students in NYCPS programs spoke a language other than English at home. Families spoke over 140 languages, led by Spanish, Chinese languages, Bengali, Russian, and Arabic.
Lastly, I will speak about multilingual learners within New York City public schools'early childhood programs.
Of the approximately 40,000 3K students and 60,000 pre-K students who were enrolled in a New York City public schools operated or contracted program,
31% of 3K students and 34% of pre-K students spoke a language other than English at home.
Families served by those programs spoke over 140 different languages, but the five most common for both grades were Spanish, whose speakers made up 18% of all 3K and pre-K programs, followed by Chinese languages, Bengali, Russian, and Arabic.
If proposed rule changes to Head Start are finalized, the families of New York City's multi-language learners may look to NYCPS for programs that support language diversity and access.
NYCPS has an opportunity now to ensure there are sufficient resources for enrolled multi-language learners, as well as to build new supports for future students.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify, and I'm happy to answer any questions.