For 17 years, the Chinese language program at West has empowered students with vital skills for college, careers, and global citizenship. We, the students, parents, alumni, teachers, and community members, urge you to keep this invaluable program, including AP and IB Chinese classes, part of our school’s curriculum.

We have recently learned that West plans to cut Chinese 1 and Chinese 2 classes next year. After that, the future of the entire Chinese program, including the advanced AP and IB Chinese classes, is uncertain, and even our teacher does not know what will happen next. This decision puts the entire 17-year legacy of Chinese language education at risk.

1. Proven Excellence and Legacy
Our Chinese program is a crucial class of West. For nearly two decades, it has offered rigorous instruction, cultural enrichment, and advanced opportunities through AP and IB classes. Generations of students have benefited, and our school is recognized for this unique offering.

2. Academic and Career Advantages
Chinese is one of the world’s most spoken languages and a critical language for business, science, and international relations. AP and IB Chinese classes give students a competitive edge for college admissions, scholarships, and future careers. Many alumni have earned college credit, studied abroad, or pursued careers in international fields thanks to this program.

3. Promoting Diversity and Global Awareness
The Chinese program fosters cross-cultural understanding and respect. It enriches our school’s diversity, brings together students from different backgrounds, and prepares us to engage in a multicultural world. Removing it would be a step backward for our school’s commitment to inclusion and global education.

4. Community and Personal Impact
Students and families have invested years in studying Chinese. The program has built lasting connections with local and international communities, hosted cultural events, and created a welcoming environment for heritage and non-heritage learners alike. For example, myself, I am half white and half Chinese and always felt like I didn't fit in anywhere. But when I entered the Mandarin classroom I felt at home, a mix of all races just trying to learn. We grew together and all learned Chinese and Chinese culture. No longer would kids think weirdly of me being Chinese, because they were educated and were able to learn another culture through Mandarin.

Eliminating the Chinese program would:

• Limit students’ access to advanced language learning and international opportunities.
• Reduce our school’s academic offerings and reputation.
• Disrupt the educational paths of current and future students.
• Undermine our commitment to diversity and global readiness.

We respectfully ask school leaders to:

1. Preserve and support the Chinese language program, including AP and IB classes.
2. Reconsider the decision to cut Chinese 1 and 2, which are essential for new students to join the program.
3. Communicate openly with the school community about the program’s future and any challenges.

Let’s keep West a leader in global education. Please join us in supporting the continuation of the Chinese language program!