My journey with learning a new language, despite being dyslexic, has been challenging, yet rewarding. Through the Italian program at our school, I've found hope and the ability to overcome my learning difficulties, bringing me closer to a world previously inaccessible to me. To my astonishment and dismay, this important program is under threat of being discontinued in the coming school year.

As a student, I recognize the importance of language education for youth. According to the American Councils for International Education, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing language learning, students who study a new language show improved critical thinking skills, creativity, and flexibility of the mind in young children. Additionally, the National Education Association states that early language learning is vital in contributing to fluency and fostering a deeper understanding of other cultures.

Eliminating our Italian program would not only be a personal blow for students like myself, who have found motivation in studying new languages, but would also cripple all students' exposure to new cultures, people, and different ways of thinking. We ask the school administration to reconsider their decision, putting students' educational growth and future opportunities first.

Please, join us in our fight to save our Italian program. Sign this petition to show your support.