Spanish Dual Language

Choosing a Dual Language program for your child can provide numerous benefits, both academically and personally. Research has found that learning a second language at an early age positively impacts brain development, intellectual growth, and various other aspects. Here are some reasons to consider enrolling your child in a Dual Language program:

1. Bilingualism: Dual Language programs immerse students in two languages, usually their native language and a target language, such as Spanish. This helps them become fluent in both languages, providing cognitive, social, and economic advantages throughout their lives.

2. Cognitive benefits: Studies show that bilingual individuals experience enhanced executive functioning, problem-solving skills, creativity, flexibility in thinking, and greater sensitivity to language. They also tend to develop better listening skills.

3. Cultural competency: Dual Language programs expose students to different cultures, helping them understand and appreciate people from other countries. This fosters an appreciation for diversity and promotes cultural understanding, leading to more empathetic and open-minded individuals.

4. Academic achievement: Students in Dual Language programs often outperform their monolingual peers in reading, writing, and math. Bilingualism can enhance their overall academic performance.

5. Improved job prospects: Acquiring fluency in languages like Spanish can open up job opportunities both domestically and internationally. Many careers value language skills and cultural competency, giving bilingual individuals an advantage in the job market.

6. Enhanced social skills: As children interact with classmates from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds, they develop their communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. This can help them build lasting friendships and connections.

7. Lifelong learning: Learning a second language at an early age can foster a love for learning and an appreciation for the value of acquiring new skills. This mindset can serve them well throughout their lives.

8. Early exposure: Young children are generally more adept at picking up new languages than older children or adults. Starting a Dual Language program early can maximize their language learning potential.

When choosing any educational program, it's essential to consider your child's individual needs and preferences. If you think your child would thrive in a Dual Language program, it could be an excellent opportunity for their growth and development.

Not to worry if no one at home speaks Spanish. Many parents in Dual Language programs do not speak the target language themselves. Over time, some parents may pick up some Spanish, but it is not a requirement for your child's success in the program.

Report cards, notices, and newsletters are typically issued in English to ensure clear communication with all parents. Additionally, Spanish homework assignments are not translated into English, and it is not expected that parents will assist in Spanish homework activities. This approach allows students to develop their language skills independently and fosters a sense of responsibility for their own learning.

When considering the Dual Language program for their child, parents should recognize that it's a commitment, ideally lasting at least through grade five. The program's objectives are most effectively achieved when students participate in this additive model throughout their elementary education. This long-term commitment allows children to fully develop their bilingual skills and reap the maximum benefits of the program.

There is no screening process for admission into the Dual Language program, and it is open to all interested students. However, if parents have any concerns about whether the program is suitable for their child, they are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the principal during the application process or as their child progresses through the program. The principal can provide guidance and address any questions or issues parents may have.

The Dual Language program differs from an immersion program in several ways. In our program, students are taught the standard North Kitsap District curriculum, but with the addition of daily instruction in Spanish. This approach ensures that students learn to understand, speak, read, and write Spanish in addition to English.

Our classroom teachers have a near-native ability in the Spanish language and are carefully selected for their skills and commitment to the program's goals. By the end of fifth grade, our Dual Language students should meet or exceed state standards in English and be literate in Spanish, as measured by our district language scales.

Our program follows an additive model, which means that we first focus on building academic skills in the student's first language. Once our native English speakers demonstrate competence in English, we introduce Spanish oral language development. After that, we focus on developing academic skills in Spanish. Math is always taught in English, while Science and Social Studies are taught in Spanish, with the amount of Spanish instruction gradually increasing as students progress towards fifth grade. This model ensures that students acquire both languages while maintaining and building upon their academic skills in English.