1) What is STARTALK?

“STARTALK is a federal grant program funded by the National Security Agency. STARTALK grants fund several types of innovative programs that aim to support strong language learning outcomes for K-16 students, provide in-depth, quality teacher development, and develop materials and resources for educators in order to meet the goals for critical need languages in the United States. This year, the critical need languages designated by STARTALK are Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Persian, and Russian. STARTALK’s overall mission is to increase the number of young Americans learning and speaking critical need world languages by offering creative and engaging learning experiences for K-16 students and teachers. To learn more about STARTALK, visit https://www.startalk.info/.”

2) How much does this program cost? 

The program is free to teachers of designated critical need languages (Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Persian, Russian).

3) Can I participate in just one or two parts of the program?

 No, admitted teachers are expected to participate in all three components. 

4) If I’ve previously participated in a past STARTALK program, can I still apply to STARTALK-TECH? 

Yes! STARTALK programs are distinct from each other. The STARTALK-TECH program will have a focus specifically on integrating technology into critical language curriculums. 

5) Do I need to arrange travel for this program? 

No travel is required. STARTALK-TECH will be completely online.

1) What dates will the STARTALK-TECH workshop take place? 

August 5 -9, 2024. This week of instruction will be online and synchronous. Official times for each day of the workshop will be announced soon.

2) What are the dates for the pre and post programs? 

These sessions will largely be comprised of asynchronous work that can be completed at the discretion of each participant. For the pre-program, learning materials will be available from June 26 -July 29 2024, comprised of approximately 30 hours of assignments. Similarly, the post program will have 30 hours worth of tasks to complete from August to December 2024.

1) Who can  I reach out to for additional questions or information?

 Please email us at GUstartalk@georgetown.edu for either TBLT or the TECH program.