By Francesca Cantanese

Anyone who goes to Granada Hills Charter knows that we have a great language program. Our multicultural city invites it, and between Korean, Mandarin, Arabic, Spanish, French and ASL there is a choice for everyone. 

These languages reflect our diverse array of students, and help us to be a more inclusive and understanding school by learning not only how to speak another language but also about the intricacies of other cultures.

However last year, I noticed that there was something lacking. The language of miei nonni, Italian. 

Yes, some may argue that Italian is not spoken as often as the other languages we offer, and that is true. The language does not have as much global significance comparatively, and our local Italian American population, while significant, does not shape our communities at the same scale as other immigrant populations. 

However, it just may be in more demand than ever, as more students look to travel or work abroad in their future, going into fields like art, culinary and fashion, three things that Italy is best known for. 

Additionally, Italians’ close ties to Spanish would make it a great choice for Spanish-speaking students looking for something different because of the two languages’ strong grammatical and syntactical similarities.

As an Italian American student, I take pride in my heritage and want other students to be able to foster a connection with their roots. Learning Italian has allowed me to connect with distant family members and feel at home in a country thousands of miles away. 

It is for these reasons that I believe that Granada Hills Charter (GHC) should expand its offerings by adding Italian language classes, including AP Italian Language and Culture. Students would benefit from another, unexpected option, allowing them to connect with their Italian heritage, or simply to experience a unique culture with a lasting global legacy.

GHC prides itself on being a school where diverse perspectives are considered, and unique classes are offered. With classes like Automotive and Culinary, as well as Broadcasting and Radio, we are always evolving to offer new student opportunities.

I propose that we bring the same innovative mindset to the World Languages department, by expanding our offerings and offering a language that truly sets us apart from other schools. Having more options can only afford our student body more opportunities to grow and learn. As the Italians would say, meglio tardi che mai!