Dual Language Program Guide/FAQ

Dual Language is an additive bilingual program model for Spanish-speaking students and a foreign language immersion program for English-speaking students. In Dual Language Immersion – Two-Way classrooms, native Spanish speakers and native English speakers are taught together in an effort to develop full bilingualism and bi-literacy for both groups of students. The program, curricular, and instructional decisions are based on research on English learners (ELs).

• Students will participate in a rigorous academic program.
• Students will become competent in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English and Spanish.
• Students will develop positive cross-cultural attitudes.

• Instruction supports a student’s primary language while learning the second.
• Program fosters a climate where child’s culture is valued while at the same time valuing the culture of others.
• Bilingualism research shows positive effects on academic, cognitive, and social skills.

• Program is K – 5 with opportunities for Spanish language instruction in middle school through high school.
• Program model is 50-50 where instructional time is split equitably.
• Class make up will be comprised of 50% Spanish speakers and 50% English speakers as much as possible.
• Students will be taught grade level TEKS and maintain high academic standards.
• Program requires a K – 5 commitment.
• Parent involvement is highly encouraged.
• Program decisions will be made based on the needs and best-practice research for English Learners.

• All English Learners are able to participate in the program with parent approval and based on the recommendation of the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC).
• Native English speakers must attend one of the two Parent Informational meetings in the Spring and complete an application. Application is considered parent approval.
• Native English speakers are determined based on seat availability and should the need arise, be chosen via a lottery system.
• Siblings are NOT automatically grandfathered into the program and must apply with all other students wishing to enter the program.

First graders whose primary language is English who did NOT attend a dual language program in Kindergarten must meet criteria for entrance.  The criteria is as follows:

• There are seats available for English speakers in the program, AND
• DRA Level of  8 (English) and an EDL level of 1 (Spanish).

Students who participated in a dual language program with another district will be accepted into the NBISD Dual Language Program provided there are seats available at the home campus.

Native English speaking students in grades 2 – 5 will be considered for the program if they are transferring from another dual language program OR if they meet the criteria below:

In all circumstances, there must be seats available and applicants will be considered in order the applications are received.

• Dual Language Campuses and feeder schools for the 2022-2023 school year:
  • Carl Schurz Elementary
    • Feeder schools are Carl Schurz, Lamar, Seele and Veramendi.

       

  • Voss Farms Elementary
    • Feeder schools are County Line, Klein, Memorial, Voss Farms and Walnut Springs.
       
•  Parents must provide transportation for the native English speakers unless they live in the Carl Schurz or Voss Farms attendance zone and meet eligibility for district transportation for that school zone.

• District provides transportation for the native Spanish speakers based on state requirements for participation in a bilingual education program.

Staff:

• Elementary teachers will hold a bilingual/ESL certification.
• Meet highly qualified criteria established by the NBISD Human Resources Department.
• Invite and encourage parents to participate in campus/classroom/volunteer activities.
• Promote, advocate, and support the Dual Language Program.

Parents:

• Support students in their linguistic, academic, and social development.
• Commit to completing the elementary program.
• Participate in campus activities/classroom activities/volunteer activities.
• Promote, advocate, and support the Dual Language Program.
• Encourage use and practice of second language at home and in the community.

Students:

• Participate in the program for at least the elementary years, but preferably through secondary levels via Spanish language classes.
• Maintain high levels of learning in both languages.
• Maintain high academic and conduct standards.
• Maintain high level of attendance and punctuality.