August Advocacy Report

Amanda Mendoza, Advocacy Chair, KSWLAAdvocacyChair@gmail.com

August 2026

Good news from JNCL: 

The House Appropriations Committee has approved $20 million in funding for the World Language Advancement and Readiness (WLARA) grants program—the highest proposed funding level in the program's history and a $5 million increase over last year. This milestone reflects the power of advocacy in action. At Language Advocacy Days 2026, increased funding for WLARA was one of JNCL-NCLIS' key legislative priorities. Advocates from across the country met with Members of Congress and congressional staff to share both the growing success of the program and the need for continued investment. 

This request was grounded in results. Since its creation, WLARA has awarded more than $78.8 million to 33 school districts in 19 states, helping military-connected schools establish, expand, and strengthen world language programs. Early outcomes demonstrate measurable gains in student proficiency, academic achievement, and program enrollment, making a strong case for expanding the program's reach. Following the successful restoration of $15 million in FY26 funding, advocates urged Congress to build on that momentum and invest $20 million in FY27 so that more military-connected students can benefit from high-quality language education.

Today's action is a testament to the years of work by JNCL-NCLIS, our members, congressional champions, educators, school leaders, and language advocates who continue to elevate the importance of language education at the federal level. While additional steps remain before this funding becomes law, today's action is a significant milestone and a powerful reminder that advocacy matters.

Central States Advocacy Brief:

Help showcase the power of language by nominating a former student whose world language experiences have shaped their journey. Central States is looking for inspiring stories that demonstrate why language learning matters and impacts the Central States region. If you know someone who might be a great feature, share their information through this form!