What is Dual Language?

Dual language is a form of bilingual education in which students are taught literacy and content in two languages. The majority of dual language programs in the United States teach in English and Spanish, although increasing numbers of programs use a partner language other than Spanish, such as Arabic, French, Hawaiian, Japanese, Korean, or Mandarin.

Caldwell's dual language program uses the partner language for one day of instruction then switches to instruction in the other language the following day. Our program is starting in kindergarten for the 2010/2011 school year, with plans to extend the program through fifth grade in following years.

Dual language programs foster bilingualism, biliteracy, enhanced awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity, and high levels of academic achievement. Students have the opportunity to acheive bilingualism and biliteracy in Spanish and English because children learn languages more easily at an early age. Immersing and instructing students in a second language provides a setting for kids to learn to speak, read, and write fluently in both languages by fifth grade. Students generally demonstrate greater academic gains due to the cognitive processes of learning in two languages. They also develop cultural sensitivity by working and communicating together in multiple classroom activities.

Caldwell Dual Language FAQs

Q: If a child is accepted as a transfer, will an older sibling be allowed to attend Caldwell?

A: As long as space allows.

Q: What happens to new Caldwell Zoned families that have a Kindergarten student and also have an older students who cannot participate in the program?

A: Depending on the year of enrollment, the older student would more than likely be able to attend classes at Caldwell. If not, a transfer would be granted to a nearby campus.

Q: If an older sibling of a participant in the program is accepted on a typical transfer, will they be allowed to remain at Caldwell through 5th Grade?

A: Yes.

Q: How is homework handled for parents who only speak their student’s native language?

A: Homework that is not in a family’s native language will only be sent home when a student can adequately complete it independently or with proper instructions for parents in the native language.

Q: How will small group instruction be handled on days when students’ instruction is in their second language?

A: The language of the day will always be followed unless there is a specific instructional need from a student.

Q: Will younger siblings of transfer students be guaranteed a spot when they begin Kinder?

A: It is our goal to keep families of students intact as they begin the dual language program. Due to changes in enrollment and program demand, transfers will not be guaranteed, however, special consideration will be given to younger siblings of a child currently enrolled in the dual language program.