JACKSONVILLE
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Duval County kindergarten students will
soon have the opportunity to learn how to speak,
read and write in both English and Spanish.
Starting this fall, four kindergarten classes,
two at Beauclerc Elementary and two at San Jose
Elementary will begin school in a Dual Language
program.
Dual
Language is an educational model that integrates
native English speakers with native Spanish
speakers in the same class, developing first and
second language proficiency which will make them
bilingual, bi–literate and bicultural. Academic
subjects are taught both in English and Spanish
to all students. This model promotes a
comfortable environment for all students where
their first language is valued and maintained
while acquiring a second language.
“Learning two languages during the primary years
is one way to ensure success in the future for
our students,” said English as a Second Language
Supervisor, Brenda Trimble. “We are looking
forward to the multiple benefits these students
will receive while learning another language.”
The
goal of this program is to provide educational
opportunities to inspire students to acquire and
use the knowledge and skills needed to succeed
in a global economy and culturally diverse
world. Dual Language will prepare these
students to meet the educational and employment
requirements of the future.
This
program begins with four kindergarten classes,
but will add a grade each year up to the fifth
grade, at which time the participating children
will be able to speak, read and write in two
languages. Enrollment is limited and
applications will be accepted through the end of
May. Families will be notified prior to the
school year and there will be a waiting list for
those who are not selected.
