PART II-C. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IN LAFAYETTE

§1970.31. Legislative intent

            A. It is the intent of the legislature to establish a world language immersion school for the express purpose of providing an expansive and challenging educational experience for the students of this state, thereby enabling such students to reach their full potential and be productive citizens.

            B. The legislature finds that the development of a world language skills program and cultural expertise are crucial in addressing the economic challenges facing the state and nation in the global marketplace. Professions including but not limited to law, health care, education, tourism, hospitality, agriculture, and oil and gas all require an international dimension that reflects the ever-changing world environment and Louisiana's increasingly diverse population.

            C. The legislature recognizes that sustained, intensive, continuous sequences of second language study results in the following benefits:

            (1) Increases awareness of and appreciation for other cultures and people.

            (2) Develops a high proficiency in a second or third target language other than English.

            (3) Enhances problem-solving capabilities.

            (4) Improves memory and listening skills, and has a positive effect on intellectual growth.

            (5) Enhances understanding of an individual's primary language.

            (6) Better prepares students for the twenty-first century job market.

            (7) Preserves the heritage language of Acadians and the related economic value of the Cajun Creole culture in Louisiana.

            Acts 2012, No. 851, §1, eff. June 14, 2012.