Because half the day is in English, these students are able to develop academically in both languages. Historically, Utah has been a leader in recognizing the language-learning ability of children. Cherry Hill Elementary School in Orem, for example, has been teaching math, reading, science and other subjects in Spanish as a way to teach the language to native English-speakers since 1974. Utah is not the only state that has discovered the value of such programs. These programs are not new or experimental but have been running successfully for years.
Dual immersion is a program design specifically listed as eligible for federal Title VII grants.
These federal dollars could be used in Utah schools for planning and implementing additional dual-immersion programs. Extensive research has been done on dual-immersion programs. Dual-immersion students end up in high school with English reading scores at or above the level of native English speakers. As we evaluate our educational programs in light of demographic changes, we need to be sure to look at long-term research and programs that have been shown to lead to improved English scores throughout a student's academic career. Dual immersion is one very strong option.