For decades, students studying European Portuguese have faced a challenge that many other language learners do not: the lack of a widely recognized, proficiency-based assessment specifically designed for European Portuguese.

Today, we have an opportunity to change that.

The Portuguese American Leadership Council of the United States (PALCUS) has established a dedicated task force to support the development of an AVANT assessment for European Portuguese. This initiative will help provide students, educators, schools, universities, and heritage language programs with a modern, standardized tool to measure language proficiency and promote the study of European Portuguese throughout the United States and beyond.

An AVANT assessment would:

✅ Increase recognition of European Portuguese in educational settings

✅ Support students seeking language credits, certifications, and academic opportunities

✅ Strengthen Portuguese language programs in schools and universities

✅ Provide educators with a valuable proficiency assessment tool

✅ Help preserve and promote Portuguese language and culture for future generations

The Portuguese-American community has invested generations of effort into maintaining our language and heritage. Now we have an opportunity to make a lasting impact by helping create a resource that will benefit students for years to come.

PALCUS is bringing together educators, community leaders, language experts, and stakeholders to advocate for and support this important initiative. However, developing a high-quality language assessment requires significant research, coordination, consultation, and technical development.

That is why we are asking for your support.

Every contribution—large or small—will help move this project forward and demonstrate to educational partners that the Portuguese-American community believes in the future of European Portuguese language education.

Whether you donate $10, $25, $100, or more, you are investing in future generations of Portuguese speakers.

Together, we can ensure that European Portuguese receives the recognition and educational support it deserves.

Thank you for helping us strengthen Portuguese language education and preserve our cultural heritage.

Donate today and share this campaign with your family, friends, educators, and community organizations.

With gratitude,

PALCUS Portuguese Language Task Force