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Bilingual Education
 We began our Dual Immersion Bilingual Education program in
2001. Now in grades K-6 we have classes of approximately twenty
students--ten native Spanish speakers and ten native English
speakers. They receive roughly half of their education in each
language. This means that for part of each day, every student
has the experience of learning in their native language and
learning in a second language. Students are encouraged to
develop literacy skills in either language. Good literacy skills
will transfer into another language. Developing fluency in two
languages will be a tremendous advantage in the world these
children will enter after school.
Benefits of a Two-Way Dual Language Immersion Program
- Offers equal access to education.
- Raises self-esteem for all children.
- Better prepares students to meet the challenges of a global society:
academically, linguistically and socially.
- Promotes critical thinking skills.
- Provides added value - to be functionally literate in two languages.
- Develops an appreciation and understanding of both cultures.
- Increases parent and community involvement.
- Gives our students a multilingual edge as they prepare to compete in
a global market place.
 Goals for our Dual Immersion Program
- High levels of proficiency in their first language.
- High levels of proficiency in the second language.
- High academic expectations at each grade level in both languages.
- Positive cross-cultural attitudes and behaviors.
Dual Immersion Lottery
A lottery is held each spring for entry into Kindergarten Dual
Immersion classes. Parents interested in enrolling their
child in the Dual Immersion Program must participate in the
lottery system.
If you would like additional information on our Dual Immersion
Program, please refer to the
Bilingual Education Manual, or contact the Director of
Second Language Services at 578-5000.
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