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What are the goals of this program?
The Goals of the Language Immersion Program are to develop academic and language skills that create:
Bilingual students — able to communicate with equal proficiency in both English and Spanish.
Bi-literate students — able to read and write with equal proficiency in both English and Spanish.
Achievement — in all subject areas.
Positive concepts regarding, self, family, friends, and community.
An increased understanding of the culture of the people whose language they are learning.
What does it mean to be biliterate?"
Biliteracy is the ability to communicate — listen, speak, read, and write — at grade level in two languages.
What are the benefits of being "biliterate?"
Biliterate citizens:
Are prepared for a world of global communication and economy.
Have the ability to function effectively in multiple cultures.
Are empowered to achieve the highest academic, social, and linguistic skills.
Outperform monolingual students on many tests.
The program begins in kindergarten or first grade and continues throughout your child’s academic career in the school district. Participation in this program is voluntary and enrollment is limited.
What are the benefits of knowing a second language?
In addition to developing a lifelong ability to communicate with more people, there are other benefits from early language instruction, including improved overall school performance and problem-solving skills. Knowing a second language provides a competitive advantage in the workforce by opening up additional job opportunities.
Why is it better for my child to learn a language in elementary school?
Studies have shown — and experience has supported — that children who learn a language before adolescence are more likely to have native-like pronunciation. Of course, as with any subject, the more years a child can devote to learning a language, the more competent he or she will become.
Will a second language interfere with my child’s English ability?
In most cases, learning another language enhances a child’s English ability. Children learn about English by learning the structure of other languages. Common vocabulary helps children learn the meaning of new words in English. Studies have shown no long-term delay in native English language development occurs in children participating in second language classes.
Parental Commitment
The district’s Language Immersion Program relies on a strong school-home partnership for its success. Your child’s progress and educational success depend upon your understanding of how the program works; the supports you provide at home; and your willingness to assist the teachers when needed. People acquire language gradually, over time. To gain the benefits from this program, families must be committed to remain in the program for the duration of their child’s schooling. Parents are expected to be active participants in their child’s education at school and in the home.
Parental Involvement
Parents may participate in the Language Immersion Parent Advisory Council. This group meets with teachers and administrators monthly to plan, review, and refine program needs.
If you are interested in finding more about this program, please come to an informational meeting at the following sites:
Center Elementary School Tuesday, April 30, 2002--7:00 PM, MPR
Foxboro Elementary School Monday, May 13, 2002---7:00 PM, MPR
Scandia Elementary School Tuesday, May 14, 2002--6:00 PM, MPR
Travis Elementary School Monday, May 20, 2002---6:30 PM, MPR
Cambridge Elementary School Tuesday, May 21, 2002--6:00 PM,
Travis Educational Center Thursday, May 23, 2002-6:00 PM
Cambridge Elementary School Tuesday, May 28, 2002-10:00 AM, MPR