Principal Asdod discusses world language program challenges at McKelvey School

Budget cuts and program evaluations took center stage at the Bedford School District's School Board Planning Session on May 19, 2025, as officials grappled with the implications of declining student enrollment on educational offerings. The discussion highlighted the need for strategic decisions regarding which programs to maintain or reduce, particularly in light of rising operational costs.

Board members expressed concerns that even with fewer students, expenses such as heating, lighting, and teacher salaries remain high. One member noted, “Just because we have fewer kids doesn't mean the cost automatically goes down,” emphasizing the financial challenges ahead. The conversation quickly shifted to potential program reductions, with a focus on world language offerings at McKelvey School.

Principal Jen Asdod shared insights into the current state of the world language program, which includes French and Spanish. She noted significant hiring challenges, particularly in finding qualified teachers who can teach both languages. “We have had a challenge in particular finding that dual certified French and Spanish speaker,” Asdod explained, revealing that the school has experienced a high turnover rate in language teachers.

The board discussed the possibility of eliminating French due to declining enrollment numbers, with 80% of students opting for Spanish. Asdod advocated for maintaining both languages, citing the cognitive benefits of early language exposure. “The earlier kids are exposed to foreign languages, the better they are at their own language,” she stated.

However, some board members raised concerns about the effectiveness of the current program structure, suggesting that students would benefit from more consistent language instruction. One member shared a personal experience, highlighting the difficulties their child faced transitioning between languages without a solid foundation.

As the meeting concluded, the board acknowledged the complexity of the decisions ahead. They agreed to further evaluate the world language program while considering the broader implications of budget cuts on educational quality. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to providing valuable educational experiences, even amidst financial constraints.