Keep our language programs sensible

Wow, what an odd dictum. Roman Golash (Fence Post, Oct. 21) writes that our schools' language programs need overhauling. Apparently, if we teach less-known languages like Ukrainian and Indian, and reduce or throw out teaching altogether the likes of French, Spanish and German, it would “ ... allow further diversification and allow us to embrace a holistic, balanced international view.”

Let me see if I have this right. In order to achieve a truly diverse and balanced international view, we move some select languages to the front of the bus and send the others packing. Never mind creative suggestions of offering languages that would include both mainstream consensus and those that would contribute to preparing our youth for careers. Rather, we are to acquiesce to individual whims at the expense of the group, which is neither fair nor balanced and does nothing to serve the greater good.

Appears to me to be yet one more example of sticking it to the man throwing many under the bus to advance the chosen few.

Dee Kay

Palatine