Contact: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Thursday, December 16, 2010

In recognition of its potential as a model Chinese language program for the United States, strong local leadership, demonstrated commitment to international exchange and collaboration, and global vision for the future, Fayette County Public Schools has been accepted as a member of the second cohort of schools in the Hanban – Asia Society Confucius Classrooms Network.

This national network of 100 exemplary Chinese language programs will be developed over three years. With this second cohort, the network represents more than 15,000 students in 23 states and the District of Columbia.

Each Hanban – Asia Society Confucius Classroom will be matched with a partner school in China to enhance opportunities for language learning and to provide students, teachers and administrators with opportunities to conduct exchanges and joint projects. The network is linked through an online community where teachers will share resources and best practices in an effort to build models for the field. 

FCPS already offers high-quality Chinese language programs in 12 schools, partners with sister schools in China and participates in cultural activities with local groups.

The Confucius Classrooms Network has been established with the support of an international expert advisory committee and in partnership with Hanban, the affiliate of the Chinese Ministry of Education that supports the teaching and learning of Chinese language and culture in all corners of the world. Visit asiasociety.org/Chinese for more details.