As bilingual programs continue to unfurl their wings across the Valley, more school districts have hopped on the train to offer dual language immersion programs. Apache Junction Unified School District (AJUSD) is one such district that has announced the inception of a new dual immersion initiative, slated to kick off this fall at Four Peaks Elementary School. "We want to start at the ground floor here, start it in kindergarten, like all programs do, and grow it year by year," AJUSD Superintendent Robert Pappalardo told ABC15.
This educational venture, primarily established in elementary schools, divides the school day into halves - one dedicated to English, and the other to a second language, with Spanish being the usual favorite. Adding a new spin, Phoenix Union High School District plans to extend this program into high school, carving a space at Carl Hayden High School for students wishing to propel their bilingual proficiency to new heights. In a push for inclusion, they say it's significant to elevate those who wish to continue their bilingual journey post-elementary and earn a seal of bi-literacy on their diplomas, Julio Rubio, the principal of Carl Hayden High, told ABC15.
At the state level, Superintendent Tom Horne has sued several districts over mishandling bilingual instruction. He claims they're not following the law, which says students must be proficient in English before learning another language. The case is ongoing, with arguments heard in mid-January. Schools like AJUSD and Carl Hayden are working hard to prove they're meeting bilingual education standards, "When we teach reading, writing, and grammar, you get that in Spanish and English," Pappalardo explained to ABC15.
Meanwhile, Mesa County Valley School District 51 has remained active, carving out its niche with the Department of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE). Dedicated to preparing English language learners for academic success, the district offers a comprehensive K-12 program to enhance listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills. The goal is clear: to engage, equip, and empower students with both linguistic proficiency and cultural awareness for global success. As a recognition of bilingual achievement, District 51 awards a Seal of Biliteracy to proficient students, as stated on the District 51 official website.
