Kentucky World Language Association

IT'S ELECTION YEAR--FOR KWLA!

In order to keep our organization running and supporting World Language teachers and learners across Kentucky, we are looking for a few good board members! Email [email protected] if you are interested.

𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥: 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭-𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭
This is a 6-year commitment (2 years Pres Elect, 2 years President, 2 years Past-Pres). The President-Elect is a member of the Executive Board and assists the President with organization management and event planning. Previous KWLA board experience preferred, but we'll happily train you!

𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝: 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐫 (we have a back-up plan, but no current candidates)
This is a 2-year commitment, but re-election is possible. The treasurer pays the bills, keeps detailed financial reports, deposits checks, contacts individuals about unpaid invoices, files tax documents (minimal and easy!), and prepares the annual budget. Preferred: prior experience with budget documents and records; located near Lexington, as that is the mailbox location. Note: This role will work closely with the past-president (Beck) throughout the term, as KWLA is looking into various community grants and fundraising opportunities

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 (there is already one candidate)
This is a 2-year commitment, but re-election is possible. The secretary attends all board meetings, takes minutes, communicates with the board, sends agendas, assists with member-management, and helps with communications. No previous experience necessary.

𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 (MANY are vacant; all are open to voting)
This is the lowest lift of all KWLA roles...but it's also essential! This is a 2-year commitment, but re-election is possible. Regional reps attend KWLA board meetings, provide ideas, serve on at least one committee, try to gather information on the programs/teachers in their area, and share any known local needs with KWLA. Regions mostly align with Kentucky's Educational Cooperatives, with a few additions: WKEC (vacant), GRREC (vacant), OVEC, JCPS, Jefferson County Private Schools, NKEC (vacant), CKEC, Fayette County Private, KVEC, KDEC, SESC (vacant).

Want to connect with Kentucky educators who are passionate about language learning, global competency, and preparing students for the future? Here are 3 great reasons to sponsor or exhibit at the 2026 KWLA Conference:

1️⃣ Reach your audience. Connect directly with world language educators, department leaders, and other education professionals from across Kentucky (and beyond!)

2️⃣ Show what you offer. Put your products, programs, services, or opportunities in front of educators who are actively looking for resources to strengthen their classrooms and programs.

3️⃣ Support language education in Kentucky. Your partnership helps KWLA provide professional learning, networking, and resources for educators—and demonstrates your organization’s commitment to multilingualism and global learning.

Interested in becoming a 2026 KWLA sponsor or exhibitor?

Learn more about sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities & register here: http://tiny.cc/KWLAExhibit

We’d love to have your organization join us at the 2026 KWLA Conference!

Don't miss out! Register now at tiny.cc/KWLAConferenceReg

KENTUCKY WORLD LANGUAGE EDUCATORS: KRS 158.6453 calls for KDE to implement a process for reviewing all academic standards and aligned assessments. The review process for the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) for World Language will begin in fall 2026.

GIVE FEEDBACK ON THE CURRENT STANDARDS: http://tiny.cc/KDEStandardsFeedback

APPLY TO THE REVISION COMMITTEE: http://tiny.cc/KDECommitteeApp

Links to press releases:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KYDE/bulletins/4273c1e
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KYDE/bulletins/427ada5

These links are also available in the bio.

Don't forget to get your discounted hotel room!

You can book with the Holiday Inn Hurstbourne at tiny.cc/KWLAHousing.

Haven't registered for the conference yet? It's only ONE MONTH away! Register here: tiny.cc/KWLAConferenceReg

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2026/08/03/what-do-americans-think-about-language-learning-in-us-schools/

What do Americans think about language learning in U.S. schools? Four-in-ten Americans say it is extremely or very important for children growing up in the U.S. to learn a language other than English.

Congratulations, Sara! Welcome to your new role.

https://www.kentuckyteacher.org/news/2026/08/kde-hires-sara-merideth-as-new-academic-consultant-for-world-languages/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&fbclid=IwdGRjcAUAO7NwZG9mBWZkaWQWUNaLPAKjGVGwicqJC1g3XbHkH-xQE2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR5C5bZZZBZh-cTC9b3URE_SzfPjm_9wZPMEY4Q9AkNLI3XYrSP_YHBkDu6NgA_aem_Bh3sim4MLpifPyKzrXwbJg

KDE hires Sara Merideth as new academic consultant for world languages The Kentucky Department of Education’s (KDE’s) Office of Teaching and Learning has named Sara Merideth as the new academic consultant for world languages. "Throughout her career, Sara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to world language

REGISTER NOW! The 2026 KWLA Conference is October 9-10 in Louisville, KY. We would love to see you there!

Register: http://tiny.cc/KWLAConferenceReg
Book your hotel: http://tiny.cc/KWLAHousing
Exhibit or Sponsor: http://tiny.cc/KWLAExhibit

2026 Annual Conference - Kentucky World Language Association Fast Facts Conference Date October 9-10, 2026 Location Holiday Inn Louisville East – Hurstbourne1325 South Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222 Learning Experiences Professional learning and networking with other World Language… Read More »2026 Annual Conference

DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO JULY 31!

Please come share your experience and your expertise with your fellow colleagues as well as encourage them to share as well by submitting a proposal to present a 45-minute in-person session or 2-hour workshop!

CALL FOR PROPOSALS. How do your students and classes reflect the Kentucky Portrait of a Learner?

Submit a proposal for the 2026 KWLA Conference here: http://tiny.cc/KWLA-CFP