Dual Language Program
Integrating English Learners and English dominant students with the goal of developing culturally-aware, multilingual students.
About Dual Language Education
Dual language education is a proven method for developing fluency and literacy in both English and Spanish. This program brings together native speakers of each language, allowing students to learn not just from their teachers, but from one another. As they collaborate, students gain valuable language skills while deepening their understanding of different cultures.
Salem-Keizer Public School's Dual Language Program blends English Learners and English speakers in a shared learning environment designed to enhance both academic achievement and bilingual abilities. Our goal is to develop critically aware, multilingual students who can bridge cultural divides, communicate effectively in diverse settings, and succeed in an increasingly globalized world.
Dual Language Program Goals
- Achieve grade-level or higher academic success in all subjects
- Develop strong bilingual and biliterate skills in English and Spanish
- Foster cultural pride, confidence, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives
Dual Language Program Details
Elementary dual language programs follow a two-way immersion model; classrooms are comprised of balanced numbers of English Learners and native English speakers and include students who enter school with bilingual skills.
Elementary dual language programs adhere to an 80/20 language allocation model. Most instruction is in Spanish in the primary grades gradually increasing to 50% of instruction in English and 50% in Spanish by Grade 4. Students are expected to actively use the language of instruction and are grouped in ways that provide opportunities to practice language and benefit from peer models.
- Kindergarten is 20% English and 80% Spanish
- Grade 1 is 25% English and 75% Spanish
- Grade 2 is 30% English and 70% Spanish
- Grade 3 is 40% English and 60% Spanish
- Grade 4 is 50% English and 50% Spanish
- Grade 5 is 50% English and 50% Spanish
Apply for Our Dual Language Program
The Magnet school Dual Language programs at Grant, Harritt, and Myers Elementary will accept applications beginning March 1 for students entering kindergarten and first grade in 2025-26.
Dual language program applications submitted by the deadline are reviewed and organized by prioritized criteria. If there are more applicants than spaces available, a lottery is conducted for the remaining spots. Applying does not guarantee placement in the dual language program. Applications are not required for neighborhood school dual language programs.
- Students who live in the school boundary for the Magnet school.
- Students who have siblings in the Magnet school program.
- Students who live in the boundary of Salem-Keizer Public Schools but live outside the Magnet school boundary.
- Students who live outside of the boundary of Salem-Keizer Public Schools.
Application Process & Deadline
- Enroll your student in your neighborhood school.
- Complete a Dual Language Magnet school application.
- Dual Language Magnet School Application (PDF in English)
- Dual Language Magnet School Application (PDF in Spanish)
- Applications are also available at your neighborhood school
- Return a copy of your completed Dual Language application to the Magnet School or Elementary Education Office by March 31, 2025.
Enrollment for Grades 1-5
English Learner – Spanish Primary Language
If your student is an English learner or Spanish is the primary language spoken at home, they may apply to enroll in a dual language program at any grade level if they live within the boundary of a dual language school. Your student’s Spanish proficiency may be assessed to help determine appropriate classroom placement.
English is Primary Language
If English is the primary language spoken at home, your student may only apply for the dual language program in kindergarten or first grade because of language demands in Spanish beyond first grade. If your student was previously enrolled in a dual language program in another district, they may enroll in the program after first grade if there is space available.
For additional information, contact the principal of your neighborhood dual language school.
- Why should we consider dual language for our child?
- Do children in dual language programs fall behind academically because the teacher uses their non-native language?
- What does research say about Dual Language Education?
- How do teachers help students learn and understand in a second language?
- How long will it take for my child to become proficient in a second language?
- What are the benefits of continuing in the Dual Language program through high school?
- How can I support my student in doing homework in the second language if I don’t know that language?