Deer Park launched a brand-new bilingual program for third graders this year, designed to help English and Spanish speakers thrive together in an engaging learning environment. The initiative at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School reflects the community’s longtime diversity, which has only deepened as the district has recently welcomed numerous Spanish-speaking families from all over the globe.
This new pilot program features two classrooms that embrace a “dual language” approach. Each dual language class includes native English speakers and native Spanish speakers, creating a vibrant atmosphere full of language and culture. In this setup, English speakers will dive into foundational Spanish while honing their skills in English. At the same time, Spanish speakers will work on mastering English while continuing to develop their Spanish skills. This daily exposure to both languages creates a rich learning experience and fosters appreciation for each other’s cultures. As students embark on this bilingual journey, they can look forward to amazing growth. After just one year, they will be well on their way to basic conversational proficiency in both languages. Within two to three years, they will reach foundational proficiency and after five to seven years, many will achieve near-native fluency. The goals of this dual language program go far beyond just speaking two languages, however.
“We want to help our students succeed academically, become bilingual and biliterate, and develop a deep understanding of different cultures,” Executive Director of Elementary Education Danielle Sheridan said. “Research shows that students in dual language programs often see improved academic performance, enhanced thinking skills, better communication skills, enhanced cultural awareness, increased creativity, greater job opportunities, stronger memory skills, enhanced social skills and increased self-esteem.”
“The instruction happening in each of our bilingual classrooms is impeccable,” Director for ENL and World Languages Ashley Rosenberg said. “Both teachers have created warm, welcoming environments in which both English and Spanish speakers feel comfortable. If you were to visit either room, you would see student work, charts, books and much more in both languages. Students are welcomed in both languages, and often students work in partnerships, speaking with friends whose background may be different than their own. While instruction happens in both Spanish and English, students are offered differentiated support in their native languages to make sure they understand grade-level content.”
“I can already tell the difference in my daughter’s accent when she speaks Spanish,” parent Jennifer Hernandez said.
Photo courtesy of Deer Park School District
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