Dual Language Program

Dual Language LogoBPUSD Dual Language Program
Our Dual Language Program offers English and Spanish-speaking students the opportunity to learn and excel in both languages.
 
Research indicates that a Dual Language Program is the most effective model for educating limited English proficient students. Additionally, it provides English-speaking students the chance to learn a second language without compromising their academic achievement or English proficiency.

Dual Language Benefits and Opportunities 
  • The program provides students and parents with unique learning opportunities, including exclusive events, meetings, workshops, and other engaging activities.
  • Established in 1994, our program is led by experienced teachers and features a robust curriculum with creative instruction.
  • Students who complete the entire TK/K - 12th grade Dual Language program receive a Seal of Biliteracy certificate upon graduation.
  • Additionally, students develop cultural awareness, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
 
Our Dual Language Approach
  • Students in our Dual Language Program follow the 90/10 model.
  • Pre-K to 1st-grade students receive 90% of their instruction in Spanish and 10% in English.
  • Each subsequent year, the amount of English instruction is gradually increased.
  • By 5th and 6th grade, students achieve fluency in both languages, with instructional time evenly split between English and Spanish.
  • Emphasizes collaboration among teachers, students, and parents to ensure optimal learning outcomes.
 
Dual Language Schools
Three Pillars

Parents Explore Dual Language Pathways at November 18th Meetings

On November 18, 2024, Baldwin Park Unified School District hosted parent meetings to provide valuable information about the Dual Language application process for students transitioning to middle and high school. The event was well-attended by parents eager to learn about the opportunities awaiting their children as they continue their Dual Language education journey.

 

Administrators and teachers from Olive Middle School, Sierra Vista Middle School, Baldwin Park High School, and Sierra Vista High School led the presentations. Each school showcased the unique programs, activities, and resources available to prospective students. Parents heard firsthand about the academic rigor, cultural enrichment, and community support these schools provide, generating excitement about their children's educational futures.

 

A key focus of the meeting was an overview of the Dual Language application process. Parents learned about the steps their children must complete to demonstrate Spanish language proficiency, which include:

  • Written Assignment
  • Reading Assessment
  • Oral Interview
  • Collaboration Task

All components are conducted in Spanish, ensuring that students possess the skills needed to thrive in a bilingual academic environment.

 

Parents were also provided with detailed information about the long-term benefits of continuing in the Dual Language program through middle and high school. A highlight of the discussion was the opportunity for students to earn the California State Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation—a prestigious recognition of their bilingualism and biliteracy.

 

During the Q&A session, parents expressed enthusiasm and curiosity about how the Dual Language program prepares students for academic success, college readiness, and global career opportunities. Many attendees shared their excitement about the cultural and academic advantages their children will gain by staying in the program.

 

The strong turnout and engagement at the November 18th meetings underscored the growing interest in Baldwin Park Unified School District’s Dual Language program. By providing a clear path for students to continue their bilingual education, the district reaffirms its commitment to fostering academic excellence, cultural understanding, and multilingual proficiency.

 

Parents left the event inspired by the possibilities and confident in their decision to support their children’s participation in this transformative program.

Association of Two-Way & DL Education (ATDLE) (Formerly known as Two-Way CABE)

http://atdle.org/

CAL (Center for Applited Linguistics)

http://www.cal.org/twi/

CARLA (Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition)

http://www.carla.umn.edu/immersion/

CDE (California Department of Education)

http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/el/ip/

http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/el/ip/2wayschlprofile.asp  

Data/Research on Two-Way Immersion: Dr. Lindholm-Leary site

http://www.lindholm-leary.com/

Dr. Lindholm-Leary & Linda Hardman Greene BCN Presentation (PDF) 

 Dr. Lindholm-Leary & Linda Hardman Presentation

Dual Language Education of New Mexico

http://www.dlenm.org/

Evaluator's Toolkit for Dual Language

http://www.cal.org/twi/EvalToolkit/

Guiding Principles for Dual Language

http://www.cal.org/twi/guidingprinciples.htm

Guiding Principles - Best Practices Instruction

http://oceaa.org/English/About_Us_links/dual_docs/Dual%20Language%20Guiding%20Principles%20Instruction%20and%20Curriculum.html

National Dual Language Consortium

http://www.dual-language.org/resources.htm

STARLight Research-Based Publications

http://www.elresearch.org/

Thomas & Collier Research

http://esl.ncwiseowl.org/resources/dual_language/

Websites, Research & Directories (PDF)

DL Immersion - Websites, Research & Directories