In a move bringing further linguistic and cultural diversity into the educational landscape of Arizona's Apache Junction Unified School District, Four Peaks Elementary School has rolled out a Spanish Dual Language Immersion Program this school year. ABC15 reports that the program, which kicks off with the current kindergarten class, lets students learn in both English and Spanish during the school day, with the vision to expand the program one grade each year.
The initiative taken by Four Peaks Elementary school to seamlessly interweave two tongues within its curriculum allows students to not just acquire a new language but also to adapt easily another cultural lens through which to view the world. According to a statement obtained by ABC15, the dual language program divides the school day, enabling kindergarten students "to learn in English, and the other half they learn in Spanish."
The benefits of bilingual education extend beyond mere language acquisition. As outlined on the school's website, the program is designed to foster bilingual proficiency, enhance cognitive skills, and promote cultural appreciation, all while striving for academic excellence. The school's announcement, accessed via their website, details that "Students will develop the ability to listen, speak, read, and write in both English and Spanish, achieving fluency in both languages."
Parents interested in enrolling their children into this culturally-enriching program have been urged to do so without delay. The school means to ensure that students embarking on this bilingual journey can continue to to benefit throughout their elementary education. The enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year is currently open, with more information available by calling Four Peaks directly or visiting their enrollment page.
