Letter: Keep Japanese, please

As a 2009 River Falls High School graduate, I know it is extremely important to continue to offer a variety of foreign languages. Offering a global perspective to students is of the utmost importance and can influence them for a lifetime.

At RFHS, I studied the Japanese culture and language throughout each year, completing the fifth level. For about four years, my family and I have hosted a student from Japan who graduated from the UW-River Falls.

Having a host sister here in America has been a meaningful opportunity and the exchange of cultural events my family has been able to experience has been priceless.

In summer 2008 I had the opportunity to travel to Japan for 18 days. I have appreciated being able to understand the culture and have valuable friendships across Japan.

Living with a Japanese family during my trip has given me a greater appreciation for my life as I have learned to appreciate things I once took for granted.

Through these situations, I feel that in a minor way I have helped bridge the gap between America and Japan and have a better understanding of how to relate to others. These experiences will enable me to positively impact others by connecting with multicultural environments and people from other countries.

The lessons I have learned from teacher Jo Dougherty will last a lifetime. I would not be the person I am today without her guidance inside and outside the Japanese classroom.

Please reconsider the proposed plan to cut the Japanese and French programs in the high school.

Tags: river falls, opinion, letters, school, k12