The Board of Education of the Downey Unified School District recently approved a dual-language program.
Carpenter Elementary School will be the site of the immersion effort, which is called the “Global Language Academies of Downey (GLAD),” and will start in 2019.
According to the district, GLAD is unique, because children learn to communicate, write, read, and think naturally in both Spanish and English. Native speakers of both languages will study together from kindergarten through the fifth grade, becoming literate in both. The goal of the immersion program is to give students a chance of achieving success academically, as well as developing the kinds of skills that will allow them to compete in an increasingly global economy.
Officials of the district also note research shows those who learn a second language develop better reasoning skills, which enhance their ability to think critically in languages, science, and math. In addition, youngsters who are bilingual learners tend to have higher self-esteem, as well as an interest in other cultures, allowing them to be more respectful toward others. Developers of programs like this might use flyer printing to develop course materials.
The program is not mandatory; in fact, parents have to enroll their child in GLAD via an online form, and they also have to attend an informational meeting. Interested parents may call (562) 469-6568 or visit the DUSD website to RSVP for the meeting, and to download the form.