This school year, our district launched an exciting new Two-Way Dual Language Education (DLE) Program at Paige Elementary Community School. Designed to give every student an equal opportunity to succeed, the program focuses on grade level academic achievement in multiple languages. Students will be fully bilingual (comprehending, speaking, reading and writing in English & Spanish), and Demonstrate positive cross-cultural attitudes & behaviors. Inspired by strong educational models, the program builds a foundation of fairness and social justice while holding every student to high academic standards.
The program started with its very first Kindergarten class using a 50/50 model, where students spend half of their day learning in English and half learning in Spanish. The classroom includes both native English and native Spanish speakers, allowing children to naturally teach and learn from one another as they master the same core subjects as other students across the district.
Looking ahead, the program will grow by adding one grade level each school year until it covers Kindergarten through 5th grade by 2031. Teachers receive continuous training and dedicated planning time to give these young learners the best experience possible. We are also engaging families through parent workshops, bilingual school events, and regular updates so learning can continue at home.
This launch is a major step forward in celebrating our students' background languages and building a strong, inclusive community. By learning together in two languages, our young scholars are getting a head start on becoming confident, global thinkers.