Dual-Language Programs

Why a Two-Way Dual-Language program?

Two-Way immersion programs have been in existence in the United States for nearly 40 years, but their growth in popularity is a more recent phenomenon. Over the past 15 years, the number of programs has risen significantly. The recent growth in popularity of the two-way immersion programs is due in part to research demonstrating their effectiveness for both native English speakers and native speakers of another language, and the recognition by policymakers and educators that the U.S. has a critical need for residents who are proficient in more than one language.

What are the benefits?

Research has proven that students in two-way programs become greater creative thinkers, gain the same results or better in academic subject areas, standardized testing, developed and increased verbal skills and linguistic proficiency. The unique feature of this program is that there is a balance of language-minority and language-majority students, that is, 50% native English speakers and 50% native Spanish speakers in each class.

What are the program goals?

The goal of this innovative research-based two-way dual language program is to develop a high level of achievement in speaking, reading and writing in two languages for students in grades K-5. It strives to promote bilingualism and bi-literacy and seeks to promote positive attitudes, knowledge and appreciation of other cultures and their languages; and, to meet or exceed the State Standards in all subject areas.

What program model will be selected?

The program to be implemented is defined as a Two-Way 90/10 model. In the early grades students receive 90% of the instruction, in this case, in Spanish and 10% in English. The amount of English instruction is gradually increased to 50% in later grades until instruction is delivered 50% in each language.