Dual Language Immersion

• Bilingualism and Biliteracy: Students gain high levels of proficiency in English and Spanish across all domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

• Academic Achievement: Students meet or exceed grade-level standards in all content areas in both languages.

• Cultural Competence: Students build an affirming cultural identity and learn to value and respect diverse perspectives.

• Elementary: San Martin/Gwinn Environmental Science Academy offers a 90/10 model, gradually moving from mostly Spanish instruction to a balanced 50/50 split. P.A. Walsh STEAM Academy offers a 50/50 model from the start, with instruction equally balanced between English and Spanish.

• Middle School: Students continue advanced Spanish language arts and core content courses taught in Spanish, leading to recognition of biliteracy at the end of 8th grade.

• High School: Students advance through Honors and AP Spanish courses at Live Oak High School, as well as cultural studies and other opportunities, with the chance to earn the State Seal of Biliteracy on their diploma.

Research shows that students in Dual Language Immersion programs experience unique advantages:

• Cognitive Growth: Learning in two languages strengthens memory, problem-solving, and flexibility in thinking.

• Academic Success: Students in dual language programs often perform as well as or better than their peers in English-only programs, with stronger long-term outcomes.

• Cultural Connection: Students gain a deeper appreciation for their own cultural identity and for the perspectives of others.

• Future Opportunities: Bilingualism opens doors for college admissions, scholarships, and a wide range of career options in a global economy.

• Family Pride: For many families, the program allows children to preserve and celebrate their heritage language while gaining fluency in English.

Enroll in MHUSD Schools

1. Start with Online Enrollment through Aeries on the MHUSD Enrollment Page
2. Prepare Required Documents
3. Know TK/Kinder Eligibility
   • If your child is entering Kindergarten, they must turn five on or before September 1.
   • MHUSD also offers Transitional Kindergarten (TK) for children who turn four (4) by September 2.

DLI-Specific Steps and Tips

1. Apply online as outlined above. During the process, you'll indicate your interest in the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program.
2. Attend a DLI Family Information Night at P.A. Walsh or San Martin/Gwinn.
3. Sign a DLI School/Family Compact outlining the importance of committing to the DLI program for at least five (5) years.
4. Receive verification from the school if your child has been enrolled or waitlisted for the upcoming school year.

• Priority: Siblings of current DLI students are given priority placement.

• Balanced Classes: Enrollment aims for roughly one-third English-dominant, one-third Spanish-dominant, and one-third bilingual students.

• Waitlist and Lottery: If interest exceeds available space, students may be placed on a waitlist. A lottery system may be used to finalize placement while maintaining balanced classes.

• Family Commitment: Because it takes five to seven years for students to fully develop dual language proficiency, families are asked to commit to long-term participation. Parents sign a compact outlining the importance of consistent participation and family engagement.

• Parent Involvement: Families are encouraged to volunteer and take part in school and district activities that support bilingualism and biliteracy.