A Chicago high school's decision to eliminate its Arabic language program due to low enrollment and budget constraints has sparked backlash from community members who argue the course is vital for inclusion and diversity.Lincoln Park High School (LPHS) announced it will no longer offer Arabic to incoming freshmen.The decision comes as Chicago Public Schools (CPS) grapples with a projected $732.5 million deficit, forcing districtwide cuts to teaching and administrative staff, according to a new report by The Chicago Tribune.LPHS Principal Eric Steinmiller defended the decision during a May 21 local school council meeting.
Steinmiller explained that beyond the district’s severe financial constraints, the Arabic program enrolled a total of just 20 students this year and ranked as the school's "lowest-performing" International Baccalaureate (IB) language track based on test scores.However, the decision has upset local activists, parents, and students who are demanding the administration reverse course.An online petition protesting the cancellation has already garnered more than 1,500 signatures.Students walk to class at Iman Academy Southwest on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 in Houston.
(Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)CHICAGO SCHOOLS FACE ENROLLMENT CRISIS WITH 150 BUILDINGS HALF-EMPTY"Eliminating access to Arabic for incoming students would limit educational opportunities and reduce the diversity of language offerings available at LPHS," the petition reads."Language programs are essential not only for academic growth, but also for fostering empathy, inclusion, and cross-cultural understanding within our school community."The group frames the programming as evidence of the school's "commitment to educational equity, multicultural learning, and the long-term success of LPHS students."The Chicago branch of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) also criticized the school's decision.
Jordan Esparza-Kelley, communications coordinator for CAIR...