Seventh International Conference on Immersion and Dual Language Education

Strand III: Program Design, Development and Evaluation

Presentation focuses on Spanish/English programs but the ideals apply to other languages as well.

Elementary (K-5)
Middle School/Junior High
High School

Dual language programs face many challenges in their pursuit of quality implementation.  This session will address the critical considerations that must be made by school and district leadership in order to create sustainable systems that lead to effective implementation of K-12 dual language pathways for students.   In order to attain a level of Spanish proficiency that provides equitable access to advanced level content courses in high school, like those which are readily available in English, the alignment of expectations from K-12 is essential.  This presentation will touch on discussion topics such as:  scheduling, long-term retention of students in the program, capacity building, shifting the culture of collaboration, curriculum alignment, and the development of student and parent leaders as advocates.  Best practices from districts across the country and the Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education will serve as a foundation for this dialogue.  Sample documents will be provided.