Should Tennessee keep foreign language requirement for students?

12 minutes ago

Collins Parker,

NASHVILLE – This is an article written by the Professional Educators of Tennessee, not WDEF.

It supports the language requirement for Tennessee high schoolers as a lawmaker has proposed ending it.

A Balanced View on the Foreign Language Requirement
by JC Bowman and Patrick Basnett

Tennessee public high school students currently need to earn two credits in the same world language to graduate with a standard diploma, part of the state’s 22-credit graduation requirement. This can be fulfilled through courses in languages like Spanish, French, German, Latin, or other options available in their district. Since 2017, American Sign Language (ASL) has also been recognized as a modern language that satisfies this requirement.

World language courses follow the Tennessee Academic Standards for World Languages, which were revised in 2017 and updated in 2024, with implementation planned for 2028. These standards emphasize key skills: communication, cultural understanding, connections, comparisons, and community involvement. Also, middle school students can earn high school credit for introductory courses if they meet high school-level expectations.

The foreign language requirement can already be waived with written consent from a parent or guardian, allowing students to replace language courses with other electives, such as more math, science, or career and technical education credits. These waivers are often requested by students pursuing career paths where language studies are less relevant. So, in essence, there is no real problem in need of a solution here.

The ongoing debate about the necessity of the two-credit requirement is gaining momentum. In 2025, Robert Eby, the Chair of the Tennessee State Board of Education, suggested various alternatives, including the possibility of eliminating the requirement or reducing it to a single credit.

Eby highlighted several factors: a 2.84% vacancy rate for world language teachers, the need for student flexibility in STEM and career-focused disciplines, and the low utilization of language skills after graduation.
The teacher shortage essentially reflects the state average.
Supporters of these changes argue that this shift could free up space for classes in computer coding or fine arts, despite the well-documented benefits of language acquisition.
This proposal seems to create a choice that isn’t necessary when more electives can be added, and waivers already exist.

It has encountered strong opposition from educators, students, parents, and lawmakers alike. Critics warn that such changes could lead to program cuts—especially in rural districts—diminished cultural awareness, and disadvantages in college admissions.

Many universities in Tennessee, such as the University of Tennessee Knoxville, either encourage or require two language credits, as do numerous selective out-of-state institutions. Additionally, many districts highlight the importance of language proficiency for workforce readiness, citing more than 14,000 jobs in Tennessee that demand these skills.

The potential elimination of the two-year foreign language requirement is fundamentally flawed. Learning foreign languages is crucial for preparing students for a diverse society. If you don’t want to learn a foreign language, you simply request a waiver. While the State Board of Education may consider revisions, any approved changes likely won’t be implemented until the 2026-27 or 2028 school year.

Chairman Eby’s proposal to shift credit hours towards STEM or fine arts may appear enticing, but it ignores a vital truth: language education is not a hindrance; it is an essential avenue to success. The cognitive and cultural benefits of learning a foreign language are invaluable and cannot be overstated. We do agree that the waiver provision must be highlighted for students who wish to opt out of the requirement.

In 2025, Tennessee attracts substantial foreign investment, primarily from Japanese companies. Recent developments include a Canadian firm expanding in Hawkins County, a German company growing in Morristown, and a Japanese firm increasing manufacturing in Henderson County. These investments highlight Tennessee’s appeal in the automotive, energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

As Tennessee navigates its educational landscape, it is crucial to uphold a strong commitment to foreign language education. This commitment ensures that students are equipped to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world. The future of Tennessee’s economy and its position in the global marketplace hinges on this dedication.