It’s not news that learning world languages benefits students both while they’re in school and after. But as globalization continues, it’s not enough for students to gain minimal proficiency in a language without understanding other cultures. In northeast Ohio, teachers help students understand the cultures of countries where the languages they’re studying are spoken. They’re also expanding their offerings by partnering with local community colleges, and helping students to take classes abroad. Additionally, schools are encouraging students to think critically and globally through project-based classes in international business and human geography, and by setting up communications with students and teachers in other countries. It’s less about grammar and more about communication proficiency.