Mandarin Chinese Now Offered in Many Texas Schools

LEWISVILLE (WBAP 24/7 News) - The Lewisville Independent School District is conducting a survey to determine if students are interested in learning to speak Mandarin Chinese through an online course offered through the Texas Virtual School Network.

An instructor in Beijing would provide live, online instruction to students via their classroom computers. A program would also create a virtual tour of China to enhance students' understanding of that nation and its culture.

The course is already offered in 15 Texas school districts, including San Antonio, Prosper, Northwest, Birdville and Rockwall. All the teachers are certified through the Texas Education Agency.

The district would pay $400 per student but would be reimbursed by the state network for each student who successfully completes the course.