Dual Language Programs

Dual language programs provide instruction in both English and a partner language (such as Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, French, Russian, or Chinese) to students from kindergarten through grade 8. These programs can serve either one language group (one-way programs, where all students are native English speakers learning a partner language) or two language groups (two-way programs, where both native English speakers and native speakers of the partner language learn together). The programs span at least the elementary grades and provide at least 50% of instruction in the partner language, with participating students receiving instruction every day continuously across multiple school years. Schools establish leadership teams to select and oversee the program model, hire teachers fluent in the partner language, and develop or purchase culturally responsive curriculum aligned across both languages. The program is delivered in regular classroom settings during the school day.