Specialized Program Choices

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION PROGRAM
CLICK HERE 

(Haga CLIK para español) 

Contact: Michelle Mitchell

Instructional Services Specialist

[email protected]

(951) 788-7135; Extension 80206

Creating Educational Opportunities for All

Dual language hands img

Program Overview

The Dual Language Immersion program offers English speaking and Spanish speaking students an exciting, enriching and challenging educational opportunity. All students will learn to read, write, and communicate effectively in Spanish and English while achieving high levels of academic success. Students will have the bilingual skills and cross-cultural competencies needed to succeed in our multicultural society and global economy.

These are priceless gifts that will serve our children for a life-time. Dual language immersion programs have been used successfully with English and Spanish-speaking children in California for more than 25 years. Research shows impressive development of both second language fluency and academic achievement.

Program Goals

o Achieve in all academic subjects according to district and state guidelines.

o Develop fluency in communication and literacy in Spanish and English without
compromising either language.

o Cultivate understanding and appreciation of other cultures, inspire self-esteem, and strengthen positive attitudes among students, their families and the community

Curriculum

o The program follows the District’s core curriculum and uses state-adopted materials.

o Grade-level standards are taught.

o The delivery of the lessons is taught by using one language at a time.

o Teachers are highly trained and receive continuous professional development in delivering lessons that are understood by all students.

Program Model

o Grades K-3:

o Language Arts is taught in Spanish.

o 1 or 2 content areas are taught in English.

o There is a minimum of 30 minutes of language development daily.

o Grades 4-6:

o 50% of the content is taught in English.

o 50% of the content is taught in Spanish.

o There is a continued emphasis on English language development and academic vocabulary.

o High academic and linguistic expectations are in place.

“Enriched education programs are programs that emphasize challenging standards in the core curriculum domains while enriching students’ development in both their first and second language. These programs aim for full proficiency in two languages, an understanding and appreciation of the cultures associated with those languages, and high levels of achievement in all core academic domains.” (Cloud, Genesee, Hamayan, 2000)

Educating high achieving bilingual and biliterate global citizens prepared to excel in the 21st century

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How successful are these programs?

Several decades of scientifically-based research in the U.S. and Canada document that native English speakers and English Learners experience lasting cognitive, academic, linguistic, socio-cultural and economic benefits from participation in dual language programs (Peale & Lambert, 1962; Cummins, 1979; Krashen, 1983; Genesee, 1984; Willig, 1985; Cloud, Genesee & Hamayan, 2000; Thomas & Collier, 1997/2002; Lindholm Leary, 2005).

Will two languages confuse my child or slow down his/her academic progress?

There is no research to indicate this. Research has consistently demonstrated that learning in two languages enhances academic growth. However, moving children in and out of the program should be avoided. Children gain maximum benefits from the program by remaining in it until 6th grade.

Are there programs such as this one in surrounding districts?

Yes. Districts such as Corona-Norco, Jurupa, Ontario-Montclair and Saddleback Valley have well-established and successful programs in place.

Do children become frustrated listening to instruction in another language?

Some children may feel frustrated in the initial months of the program. This is completely normal and only temporary.

Will I be able to help my child with homework?

 Instructions will be written in Spanish and English. Homework is intended to be a review and practice of concepts learned in class, so they will be familiar to your child. There may be times, however, when parents may need the help of an English/Spanish dictionary.

Will I have to read to my child in Spanish/English?

Not necessarily. It is best to read to your child in the language you use at home. As your child gains more literacy skills in Spanish/English, you may ask him/her to read to you.

Can parents volunteer in the classroom?

Parents are strongly encouraged to be in the classroom and to volunteer when they can and in any way they can.