AUSD’s goal is to have students participate from kindergarten through high school.

No, you do not need to be bilingual.

Unfortunately, no—your child cannot participate. The program is designed for students to start in preschool, transitional kindergarten (TK), or kindergarten. Starting in higher grades is not recommended.

There is no research to indicate that learning in two languages will confuse or slow down the rate of progress of students. In fact, there is significant research to indicate that two languages can enhance academic growth. Two languages also will not complicate any behavior problem or learning disability.

One note: all well-designed programs require consistent implementation. Moving children in and out of such programs reduces their effectiveness. To get the maximum benefits from a dual immersion program, plan on staying with the program for at least five years. Two languages require a larger vocabulary to be built, and the early years of the program will be critical toward laying a foundation upon which long-term academic success will be built.

Expect your child to feel a bit tired or frustrated during the first few months in the program. This is known as the “silent period,” when students are learning the way the new language sounds. Be encouraging and ask for positive feedback about what your student likes most in school each day. Children are very perceptive. If you are having doubts about the program, they will know it and feel similarly, no matter what you say to them. Your unwavering commitment and encouragement will support your child through times of frustration and onto bilingual proficiency.

Please read aloud to your child in the language you are most comfortable with. It is very important to continue this special way of spending time together. You are not expected to read in Spanish or Mandarin if you do not speak Spanish or Mandarin, and in reverse, you are not expected to read in English if you do not speak English. Reading skills will transfer into the second language.