Families must choose to be in the program.
This is a long-term commitment and students need the full support of their families to succeed. To be a part of this innovative program, it is not a requirement for parents/guardians to be bilingual.
Learning both languages begins immediately.
Each student in the program spends part of their day learning in their native language. It takes most people 5-7 years to become fully fluent in a second language. Dual language students learn the same grade level standards as their peers.
Students are models for each other, in addition to the teacher.
Children have a natural language-learning capacity which allows them to easily pick up a new language through exploration and play.
How It Works
Students begin learning in both languages right away, splitting time between their native language and the new one. Fluency typically takes 5-7 years, and students learn the same grade-level standards as their peers.
90/10 model Spanish & English Instruction
- Kinder/1st Grade = 90% Spanish/10% English
- 2nd Grade = 80% Spanish/20% English
- 3rd Grade = 70% Spanish/30% English
- 4th Grade = 60% Spanish/40% English
- 5th Grade = 50% Spanish & English
Culturally Inclusive
- In the heart of downtown Medford, students are immersed in cultural experiences through family nights through the year!
