A dual language program allows students from two different language backgrounds to receive academic instruction in two languages--English and Spanish. The goal is to develop literacy in both languages by the fifth grade. The program is offerred to any student in the district. It began with 2 kindergarten classrooms in the 2009-10 school year and has expanded to include 3 kindergarten classes, 2 first grade classes and 2 second grade classes. Third grade will be added next year with fourth and fifth to follow.
How it works
Each of the dual-language classrooms is comprised of approximately half Spanish-speaking and half English-speaking students. For the first year, approximately 90 percent of the curriculum (reading, writing, math, science, social studies) is taught in Spanish and 10% in English. In the grades following kindergarten, students follow an A/B rotation each day. On A Day the students receive all core academic instruction in Spanish and on B Day the students receive all core academic instruction in English. This results in approximately a 50/50 split of English and Spanish instruction. In the grades following kindergarten, students follow an A/B rotation each day.
Grade
Spanish
English
Kindergarten
90%
10%
1st grade
50%
50%
2nd grade
50%
50%
3rd grade
50%
50%
4th grade
50%
50%
5th grade
50%
50%
Benefits
Research shows that students in dual language programs develop strong academic skills in addition to becoming proficient in both languages.
Bilingual students have the opportunity to develop a deeper level of proficiency in both English and Spanish.
Acquiring a second language enhances cognitive development and problem-solving skills.
Bilingual students gain a competitive edge in the workforce and an appreciation of other cultures.
Partnership with Splash!
East Elementary has partnered with Splash!, a language immersion organization, to help start and implement a successful program. Click here for more information about Splash!