As we begin the twenty-first century, technological, economic, political, and social forces have created a new era. Technological advancements and lower trade barriers have paved the way for the globalization of markets, bringing intense competition to the US economy. Political systems and movements around the world are having a profound impact on our national security, as well as on our human security. The increasing diversity of our workplaces, schools, and communities is changing the face of our society. To confront the twenty-first century challenges to our economy and national security, our education system must be strengthened to increase the foreign language skills and cultural awareness of our students. America's continued global leadership will depend on our students' abilities to interact with the world community both inside and outside our borders.

Most schools have not responded adequately to these challenges of the twenty-first century, and thus many American students lack sufficient knowledge of other world regions, languages, and cultures. Only about one-third of seventh to twelfth grade students — and just five percent of elementary school students — study a foreign language. Few students study the less-commonly taught “critical languages” that are vital to national security. State high school graduation requirements often include only minimal coursework in international studies. At the postsecondary level, fewer than ten percent of college students enrol in a foreign language and only one percent of undergraduates study abroad.