The Mandarin Immersion program at Linden Hill Elementary was first started under the World Language Expansion Initiative created by Governor Markell, it is now being discontinued after only five years.

Due to the significant impact that ending this program will have on the education of the children involved, the parents involved are in the process of starting a charter school to support continued language immersion.  New Castle Language School, will be a charter school focused on language immersion, starting with Mandarin Chinese, expanding to include other language programs.

Friends of New Castle Language School (FONCLS) was founded to support the start up of New Castle Language School who's mission is to develop globally minded citizens who have the knowledge and skills to affect positive change in our world.  Focusing on dual-language immersion and an advanced curriculum, New Castle Language School will inspire students to perform to the best of their ability and be lifelong learners equipped with the skills needed to make an impact in both their local community and globally.

FONCLS needs your help!  Please sign this petition to show your support for the start of our charter school, New Castle Language School.  Our goal is a start of Fall 2023.

The Delaware Department of Education website (World Languages & Dual Language Immersion / Benefits and Outcomes of Dual Language Immersion (doe.k12.de.us) clearly outlines the many benefits this program has for the children of Delaware. “Immersion students develop greater cognitive flexibility, demonstrating increased attention control, better memory and superior problem-solving skills, as well as an enhanced understanding of their first language.” Along with, “Immersion students are better prepared for the global community and job markets where world language skills provide them with an economic advantage.” Immersion students also benefit from increased cultural sensitivity and improved test performance.

Click here to donate and support Friends of New Castle Language School!  Every little bit helps.