State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, D-Bridgeview, the Latino Policy Forum, and public school districts welcomed the release of a new report that underscores the growing importance of dual language (DL) education in Illinois public schools. The report, mandated by Public Act 103-0362—legislation passed by Rashid last year—explores the benefits of dual language programs and offers a series of recommendations for expanding and improving these programs statewide. Dual language education programs foster biliteracy, cognitive development, and academic achievement in the classroom and bear positive long-lasting impacts. In a state as diverse as Illinois, these programs offer an opportunity for students to become proficient in two languages and also enhance their overall academic performance. Given its significance in today’s economy, expanding dual language education aligns with both educational trends and the growing need for multilingualism in the workplace. The report outlines several key recommendations for enhancing dual language education in Illinois, including updating state rules to define dual language programs and set clear teaching standards, developing guidelines for consistency across districts, and integrating dual language programs into broader student support systems to ensure equitable access and high-quality instruction. The full report is available for download on the Illinois State Board of Education website at www.isbe.net.