I have enrolled my daughter in a public school that offers a Dual Language
Spanish/English class. Half the class is native Spanish speakers and half is
native English speakers. The children are taught from preK-2 in Spanish
through out the day except for language arts, where they break into groups
which is taught in their native language. In 3-4 grade they are then taught
the whole day in English except language arts is taught in the second language.
I did have some concerns before enrolling her in the program but I thought
that this year of preschool would be my trial year. I figured it was worth it
even if the least she learns is a few Spanish words and develops her social
skills. But now I am having to decide if I want to commit her to the program
for the next 4 years. In theory I love the idea of her being Bilingual,
Biliterate and Bicultural. This is the projected goal of the students in this
program. The children in programs like these have entered 5th grade not only
being proficient in both languages but are actually ahead in English then their
peers whom did not participate in the program. My main concern is that our
program is only in its first year and I don't have much to compare it to. I
was wondering if any of you have any such programs in your area or any personal
experience with these programs. I want to make sure I am making the most
informed decision. For those of you that aren't familiar maybe you could give
me some of your concerns, maybe they are things I haven't thought of.

Thanks,
~Kimberly
Mommy to Alexis Iliana 07/17/99 and
Emma Elidia & Aislyn Gabriela 10/01/02
come see us...
http://www.babiesonline.com/babies/a/aislynemma/