Update on Modern Hebrew Language Program Exploration

Earlier this year, in response to community interest, the district’s Multilingual Learners (MLL) department began exploring the possibility of adding a new Modern Hebrew language program in Bellevue School District. As part of our commitment to Multilingualism for All and Equity-Driven Decision-Making, we engaged several members of our learning community to understand needs, perspectives, and interest in starting a program in BSD. 

As outlined in the World Language Heritage Language Programs and Course Offerings Procedure 2110P, decisions about adding new language programs are guided by several key considerations, including:  

• Demonstrated and sustainable student interest, supported by data such as surveys and participation trends 
• Enrollment levels sufficient to sustain the program over time 
• Availability of qualified educators 
• Access to appropriate curriculum and instructional materials 
• A clear pathway for language development, including opportunities such as the Seal of Biliteracy 
• Minimizing impact on existing programs 

Potential Program Launch in 2027-2028 

We are pleased to share an update on the exploration of a Modern Hebrew language program. Based on community interest and continued analysis, we are moving forward with planning for a potential program launch in the 2027–28 school year, beginning with kindergarten. We will continue to partner with our community to refine program design and implementation. Next steps include: 

• Identifying a school site to host the program 
• Developing curriculum and instructional resources 
• Confirming enrollment interest to support a successful launch 
• Recruiting and hiring qualified educators 

Over the past several months, we have gathered valuable input from families and staff through a community meeting and survey. We are grateful for the time and thoughtful feedback shared, which continues to inform our understanding of interest, priorities, and opportunities for language learning in BSD.   

Save the Date: Modern Hebrew Community Meeting 

We invite you to continue the conversation at an upcoming community meeting on September 8 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Rainier Room at the Wilburton Instructional Service Center (WISC), 12241 Main St, Bellevue, WA 98005. The purpose of the event will be to:

• Share what Modern Hebrew can look like in Bellevue School District 
• Build community 
• Celebrate our cultural and linguistic commonalities 
• Continue to gauge interest in the program 

Learn More 

If you have questions, please feel free to email the MLL department at multilingualinfo@bsd405.org. 

Thank you for your continued partnership. We will share additional updates as planning progresses.