Follow Tongan example

Published: Friday, Feb. 22 2008 12:53 a.m. MST

I am writing in response to the Deseret Morning News editorial titled "Languages merit preservation" (Feb. 10).

What is the matter with our State Board of Education, asking for $275,000 to preserve American Indian languages? This is not the 1800s or even 1900s.

Many years ago I taught school in the kingdom of Tonga. My teaching was done in English. The Tongan government felt its people needed language training that was practical. As a result of their training, you will have a hard time finding a Tongan who does not speak good English.

I think it would be fine to spend the amount of money that is requested to promote an effort like the Tongan government's wise decision.

Ralph Clarke

Salt Lake City

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