App for language learning

My heart soared to read “New app helps students learn Lushootseed language” article (April 6 Weekly News). Although only a handful of paragraphs were devoted to the new native language learning program to be offered at La Conner schools, it was great and happy news in a nutshell. It was not stated but hopefully the program will be offered and encouraged at all grade levels.

Perhaps it is because my career was in speech-language pathology that it grieves me when I too often read of indigenous languages being lost. This is happening with alarming frequency and worldwide. With the loss of a native tongue goes the history and culture of its people, something that can never be replaced. Without one’s native language how can one even think as one’s forbears did, much less pass on their values and ideas?

Kudos to our local schools for implementing this wonderful program. Now it is up to parents, teachers and the community to encourage and support the learning.

TJ Reinoso

Shelter Bay