What is the Dual Language Immersion Program?

Dogwood Elementary offers a Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program with Kindergarten and First Grade students for Fall of 2024-2025 school year. Dogwood’s DLI program builds bilingualism and biliteracy in English and Spanish. The DLI program integrates native English speaking students and English learning Spanish speaking students in the same classroom. The teacher provides academic instruction through two languages (English and Spanish).

What are the program goals?

The overarching goals for Dual Language Immersion are:

Bilingualism - Students will develop high levels of language proficiency.

Academic Achievement - Students will perform at or above grade level state standards in both languages.

Multiculturalism - Students will develop a positive cultural identity and an appreciation of other cultures as a 21st Century global citizen.

Biliteracy Award: -The District will acknowledge in Grade 6 students who have participated in the Dual Language Immersion program with a Pathway to Biliteracy Award. This recognition paves the way for the students to eventually earn the State Seal of Biliteracy upon high school graduation.

What are the benefits of the Dual Language Immersion Program?

  • Speak fluently in two languages.

  • Strengthen cognitive skills and attain high academic achievement in two languages.

  • Be equipped with skills to succeed in a global economy.

  • Foster cross-cultural competency.

  • Gain a competitive edge for college scholarships and career opportunities.

  • Enhance creativity and problem solving skills.

What is the criteria for students to be in a Dual Language Immersion Program?

The main criteria is for parents to complete a student DLI application for the 2024-2025 school year.

The program looks for a balance of students from each language (English and Spanish).

5 Enrollment Practices

What is the 80/20 used in the DLI Program?

What is HESD’s DLI Implementation Timeline?

How can I enroll my child in the DLI Program?

If your child is currently enrolled in the HESD District as a TK or Kindergarten student, application will be given out during our mandatory informational meetings scheduled at Dogwood Elementary School on:

Monday, March 25th at 12:30 pm

Those living outside of the HESD District must apply for an Inter-District transfer from their District of residence. For more information, please contact our office at (760) 337-6530 ext. 3011 or 3012.