UMass Amherst Bilingual Hub

The UMass Amherst Bilingual Hub provides bilingual and dual language teachers preparation; supports the implementation of research-based bilingual and dual language programs and praxis as the reflection and action on transformative practices; and sustains bilingualism and multiculturalism for equity, inclusion, and social justice.
 

The UMass Amherst Bilingual Hub (Former Western Massachusetts Bilingual Hub) was developed in 2020 through the partnerships among UMass Amherst and the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District, Holyoke Public Schools, and Springfield Public Schools and the support of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. This partnership seeks to prepare and sustain diverse and effective educators in BDL programs after implementing the LOOK Act (2017) in Massachusetts. In 2023 the Hub expanded to include the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership and Hadley Public Schools. 

The UMass Amherst Bilingual Hub FY26 (FC0181) is led by Southbridge Public Schools in collaboration with the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This dynamic hub includes an alliance of committed Massachusetts school districts, such as Amherst, Fall River, Holyoke, Lawrence, Pittsfield, Springfield, and Waltham. Together, these districts and the university work to strengthen bilingual education, increase the number of qualified educators, and develop innovative programs to support bilingual students throughout the region.