So Many Questions

Submitted by Pat (United States), Apr 25, 2007 at 11:41

Is the goal to create American Arabic speakers, or to facilitate the teaching of Islamic beliefs? We have learned Latin, French, Spanish and other European languages without immersing ourselves in the politics or even the lifestyles of people in other countries. Why isn't Arabic simply another language offering? Why can't education officials require that Arab language texts have the same basic structure as those of other languages?

I thought most Muslims were moderate. Is there no Arabic literature that doesn't promote pan-Arabism or pan-Islamism? If not, then that appears to put the lie to moderation in Islam. Isn't it more likely that the students drawn to this school will already be native Arabic speakers or non-Arab Muslims?

As for the multicultural curriculum, we have that everywhere and the damage it has done to American society is well-documented. American culture is degraded in favor of the culture of students' ancestors. They are taught that America is little more than an address, where all cultures are treated equally. This school looks like more of the same.

Regardless of the politics of the school's promoters, where is the NYC Dept of Education? What about state or federal education bureaucrats? Won't even the Arab texts need state approval?

What about No Child Left Behind? Won't these schools be expected to teach specific subjects unrelated to Islam or Arabism? Is Shakespeare off limits?

As an opponent of extended bilingual education, I would oppose a school that taught all classes in Arabic for one reason: these students are Americans. (or are they?)

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