Dual Language

Dual Language Program

A Dual Language Program or Two-Way Program, is an educational model that integrates English dominant students and Spanish dominant students in a classroom environment. The focus of the program is to promote academic achievement, first and second language proficiency, and cross-cultural understanding of all students.

PS 333’s Dual Language Program is designed to include:

•     English dominant speaking students and Spanish dominant speaking students learn together in two languages (English/Spanish) to become bilingual, bi-literate, and bicultural
•     A focus on obtaining high levels of oral fluency and literacy in both languages
•     Academic/Content instruction in both English and Spanish
•     Spanish dominant students and English dominant students, will maintain and develop their language and culture while acquiring a second language
•     An emphasis on cultural awareness, cultural appreciation, and cultural acceptance

PS 333’s Dual Language Program Student Selection Process

PS 333’s Dual Language student enrollment policies and procedures contain the following elements:

• A school program that gives first choice to neighborhood students and siblings already enrolled in the program
• Student enrollment is based on parental interest, permission and support
• A pre-screening process to assess the student's oral and readiness skills in English and Spanish for language dominance
• A special effort will be made to have a balanced number of English and Spanish dominant students

PS 333’s  Dual Language Program advocates the following goals and objectives:

Program Goals- Students Will:

• Become bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural in English and Spanish
• Meet academic standards and expectations set by district and state assessment requirements
• Experience and develop positive cross-cultural skills, relationships, and attitudes toward their own culture and the culture of others

Program Objectives- Students Will:

• Develop high levels of oral and written proficiency in both English and Spanish
• Perform academically, at or above grade level, in both English and Spanish
• Develop positive cultural attitudes toward people of other language communities and demonstrate a cultural awareness, appreciation, and acceptance of diverse cultures
• Develop a positive self-image, self-esteem, and self-confidence in themselves as bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural individuals