The longest standing debate about bilingual education is simply, “Does it work?”
The reasons for instituting bilingual education depend on the sponsoring communities
and ultimate program goals. Balances in the introduction of the languages
of instruction can vary widely depending on choices made. However,
parents and community members want to be reassured that children in bilingual
education programs will not abandon their first language and culture, will learn
the second language, and will not sacrifice curricular learning in any way.