This overview of bilingual education concerns definitions, rationale, program and student characteristics, background in the United States, data on bilingual programs, the sociocultural context, the politics of bilingual education, the development of specific bilingual programs, and studies and implications for the foreign language profession. Bilingual education involves the use of two languages, not simply learning English as a second language. It is beneficial to non-English speaking learners and to English-speaking students who wish to learn another language and culture. It has been affirmed that the use of English as the sole medium of instruction has left many children illiterate in their native languages and has contributed to low achievement levels in English itself. Information is presented on the number, geographic location, and linguistic distribution of bilingual education programs. Bilingual education is considered in a sociocultural context from the point of view of the non-ethnic majority, the school, and the ethnic minority. Changes in laws and school programs and funding considerations are discussed. The implementation of several bilingual education programs is considered, including program design and instruction, selection and development of materials, teacher training, community involvement, and evaluation. (SW