Pittsburg Unified School District

DI Application and Information

Curriculum:

The curriculum taught is aligned with the Common Core State Standards in Language Arts, Mathematics, and all other subjects.

Dual Immersion Philosophy:

Language learning is natural for young children
Language learning challenges mental development
Language learning prepares students for diversity

The Dual Immersion program combines students from two language groups and teaches them in both of their languages. The program includes balanced numbers of English, Spanish and Bilingual speaking students.

At first, students are taught the majority of the day in Spanish by a Spanish-speaking teacher. Students are also taught in English by an English-speaking teacher.

Gradually, the language of instruction shifts until by the 5th grade, 50% of the day is in Spanish and 50% of the day is in English. Throughout, students help each other to speak, read, write and understand one other's language.

Program Goals:

Students will gain proficiency in both Spanish and English
Academic achievement in Spanish and English
Positive self-esteem, cultural awareness and sensitivity

Benefits:

Bilingual Enrichment Program
Students gain a new language
High Academic Achievement
Job opportunities in many careers
Critical & creative thinking promoted
Language requirements fulfilled for high school and university credits

Who can participate?

Kindergarten students who speak Spanish, English or both can participate. Classes are balanced among the language groups.

There is no specific criterion, but rather parents choose to enroll their child in the Dual Immersion Program, committing to a period of six years (K-5).

Junior High Program is also available.

Usually, children enter the Dual Immersion Program at kindergarten. Sometimes students choose and qualify to enter at later grade levels.

Program Model - 90/10