Language Immersion Programs
By Olivia Artusa DeKatch
I have seen language immersion programs popping up in
various counties in the metro Atlanta area recently. In the last few years, I
have been hearing more and more about these schools. I have been interested in
learning more about them and the leadership behind them. I can imagine that
they are starting to build up because of the increase in the population of
English Language Learners in the metro area.
After looking online, I learned that the Georgia DOE has a
big call to action for even more language immersion schools and employees. The
Dual Language Immersion Program from the Georgia DOE has shown huge growth in
the last few years but anticipating even more growth in the upcoming years.
During the 2016-2017 school year, there were six schools in
Atlanta Public Schools, ten schools in Cobb County, four schools in Fulton County,
and six schools in Gwinnett County.
What makes a language immersion school successful? What is
different about these schools?
I have learned that it is very important for the language
program to have a clear vision with goals and a plan. This part comes from the
leader. As a leader of a language immersion school, they would have to be
knowledgeable of both the concept of immersion education and also the language
and culture being taught.
There are several benefits of Dual Language Immersion
programs in schools. When students are enrolled in dual language immersion,
they learn the language much better than if they are simply enrolled in a
foreign language. In addition, schools have reported an increased performance
on standardized tests. Students are also exposed to cultures and are more
appreciative of students of other cultures. Also, there are definite long-term
benefits for students such as being more prepared for jobs now. Lastly, dual
language immersion schools are reporting higher attendance rates.
Helpful articles for more information on language immersion
in schools:
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