For three decades, Basalt Elementary School has been at the forefront of dual language education, offering a comprehensive two-way immersion program in Spanish and English. Our program's success is built on a foundation of research-backed practices and a fundamental belief that all children can thrive in a bilingual learning environment.

Program Structure

Our balanced 50/50 partial immersion model provides students with equal exposure to both English and Spanish throughout the school day. Students spend half their instructional time in each language, with dedicated periods for:

– Daily literacy instruction in both Spanish and English

Mathematics and Social Studies/Science instruction that alternates weekly between languages

– Integrated cultural learning experiences that leverage our diverse student population

We carefully structure our program to maintain continuity across subjects while avoiding mere repetition. As students transition between language classrooms, content builds progressively on previous learning, ensuring deep understanding in both languages.

Program Goals

Our dual language program aims to develop:

– High Academic Achievement: Students master grade-level content while learning in two languages

– Biliteracy and Bilingualism: Students develop strong reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in both English and Spanish

– Sociocultural Competency: Students gain cross-cultural understanding and appreciation through daily interactions with peers and teachers from diverse backgrounds

Unique Features

– Balanced Enrollment: We strive to maintain an equal balance of native English and Spanish speakers in each classroom, creating authentic opportunities for language exchange

– Collaborative Teaching: Our homeroom teachers work together closely to ensure smooth transitions between languages and provide supportive learning environments

– Research-Based Approach: We continuously incorporate new research and strategies to enhance our program's effectiveness