Welcome to the Dual Language Program Kennewick School District is creating global citizens everyday by providing our students with the opportunity to learn two languages. English speakers can learn Spanish and Spanish speakers can learn English within our two programs, called Two-Way Dual Language and One-Way Dual Language. In these programs, students learn to read and write in both languages, helping students to:

Develop high levels of proficiency in Spanish and English. Help students achieve grade level academic performance in Spanish and English. Raise self-esteem for all children. Take advantage of the optimal window of learning a second language during the primary years. Develop bilingualism, biliteracy and multiculturalism.

One-Way Dual Language Program: Spanish/English Amistad Elementary & Eastgate Elementary (Grades K-5) Enrollment: Students who speak primarily Spanish at home are eligible to enroll.

Students experience classroom instruction in an 80:20 model, where in kindergarten 80 percent of the instruction is in Spanish and 20 percent of the instruction is in English. Each school year, more instruction in English is added until a 50:50 model is reached by third grade.

Language Instruction by Grade & Subject Grades English Spanish

K-2 Reading, Writing and Science Reading, Writing, Social Studies and Math

3-5 Reading, Writing, Social Studies and Math Reading, Writing and Science

Two-Way Dual Language Program: Spanish/English Fuerza Elementary (Grades K-5) Enrollment: Incoming kindergarten students who speak Spanish, English or are bilingual at home are eligible. Application, testing and lottery selection required for English speaking or bilingual families. The application process begins in February of the student’s pre-kindergarten year.

Fuerza is a two-way dual language elementary school with a bilingual staff dedicated to serving dual language learners! Students experience classroom instruction in a 50:50 model, where 50 percent of the instruction is in English and 50 percent of the instruction is in Spanish. Half of the students in each classroom speak English at home and half of the students speak Spanish or are bilingual at home.

Language Instruction by Grade & Subject Grades English Spanish

K-2 Reading, Writing and Science Reading, Writing, Social Studies and Math

3-5 Reading, Writing, Social Studies and Math Reading, Writing and Science

Secondary Learning Opportunities Highlands & Park Middle Schools (Grades 6-8) Amistad, Eastgate and Fuerza elementary students are eligible to continue their Spanish/English learning in dedicated middle school classrooms at Highlands and Park middle schools. These programs are boundary qualified and are a continuation of the program which started in kindergarten. Eligibility requirements are necessary to participate in the middle school program.

High School Spanish Courses (Grades 9-12) Students may continue their Spanish language learning in high school by taking Spanish Language Arts, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Interpreting/Translating courses.

Seal of Biliteracy (Grades 8-12) Students who attain a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading and writing in Spanish and pass the language and assessment test are eligible to receive a Washington Seal of Biliteracy on their diploma and high school transcript.

Questions? Contact the Dual Language Coordinator at (509) 222-6899 www.ksd.org