Belton ISD to Offer New Two-Way Dual Language Option
Belton ISD is offering incoming pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students in the 2021-2022 school year the chance to learn to read, write, listen and speak in both English and Spanish.
It’s part of the district’s expanding Dual Language program that will integrate native English speaking students with native Spanish speakers so all learn both languages.
“We are so excited to move to a two-way dual language program,” said Jennifer Aragon, director of English/Language Arts and Social Studies. “This model will allow us to ‘add’ a second language for all students.”
Research shows this learning environment is academically beneficial for both native English speakers and native Spanish speakers, Aragon said.
“The data is so clear that students in dual language programs have better long-term educational outcomes than their peers not in the program,” Aragon said, “and on top of that, it fosters pride in students when they are able to connect to two cultures and languages.”
Being bilingual and bilerate also provides greater opportunities for careers in many fields such as medical, business, communications, technology and law.
“This is one more way Belton ISD can help prepare students for their futures,” Aragon said. “We want to develop the ability to communicate in two languages and understand the cultures of those languages.”
Parents who are interested in this opportunity are encouraged to attend an upcoming information meeting or watch the information video at https://youtu.be/rcbBBfVOsvE (English) or https://youtu.be/triMsdNlB_8 (Spanish) to learn more and then provide feedback on this survey: https://bit.ly/3saN8Z8.
“We’re deep in the weeds of planning this program for next year,” Aragon said. “It’s important that we hear from the families who are interested in having their child join the program so we know what details are most important to them.”
For more information, please contact Norma Romero, dual language coordinator, at norma.romero@bisd.net or (254) 215-2107.
Two-Way Dual Language Parent Information Meetings
Wednesday, April 14
9 a.m.
Zoom: https://bisd-net.zoom.us/j/8626530076 (Meeting ID: 862 653 0076)
Wednesday, April 14
5 p.m.
Belton Early Childhood Center (501 E 4th Ave., Belton, 76513)
Friday, April 16
9 a.m.
In Person: Southwest Elementary (611 Saunders St., Belton, 76513)
Zoom: https://bisd-net.zoom.us/j/8626530076 (Meeting ID: 862 653 0076)
Friday, April 23
9 a.m.
In Person: Charter Oak Elementary (8402 Poison Oak Rd., Temple, 76502)
Zoom: https://bisd-net.zoom.us/j/8626530076 (Meeting ID: 862 653 0076)