The vision of the Dual Language program is to provide a form of education in which students are taught literacy and content in two languages.

Mission
The mission of the Dual Language program is to close the academic achievement gap for English language learners (ELLs).

 

What is a Two-Way Dual Language Programs?

The Dual language program is a form of education in which students are taught literacy and content in two languages. They are considered, “additive” bilingual programs because they “add” a second academic language for students, instead of extinguishing a minority language and move a student to exclusively use English.

Dual language programs generally use the partner language for at least half of the instructional day in the elementary years. Dual language programs generally start in kindergarten or first grade and extend for at least five years, although many continue into middle school and high school.
 
Two-Way Dual Language refers to the group of students participating in the program as being from both of the languages used in the program model. Two-way programs support a mix of first language Spanish-speaking and English-speaking students to learn all material in both languages.

 

Benefits of a Dual language program

Dual language is the only model that closes the academic achievement gap for English language learners (ELLs), students whose first language is not English, through 12th grade (Thomas & Collier).  

Overall, research demonstrates that students learning languages who are enrolled in successful Dual Language programs have better long-term educational outcomes than their peers not in Dual Language programs, (Thomas & Collier).

 

Dual Language Programs:

• Provides a means for students to stay connected to their own parents and extended families and thus, leads to less behavioral problems and long-term greater social and academic success.
• Lets students be prideful that they are able to be connected to two cultures and languages.
• Provides greater opportunities for careers in many fields such as medical, academic, business, communications, technology, law.

 

How do I sign up?

Our Dual Language programs are offered at two campuses, Bret R. Tarver and Starlight Park Preparatory and Community School.  Contact the schools to learn more information and how to register. 

Bret R. Tarver Elementary School
(623) 691-1900
4308 N. 51st Avenue Suite 102, Phoenix, AZ 85031

Starlight Park Preparatory and Community School
(623) 691-4700

7960 W. Osborn Road, Phoenix, AZ 85033