Dual Language Immersion
Mission & Vision
Our Dual Language Immersion Program is committed to graduate bicultural and bi-literate students who sustain high levels of academic achievement in both languages and are socioculturally competent individuals who will thrive in an ever-changing global community.
The three pillars of Dual Language Immersion are:
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Bilingualism and Biliteracy
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High academic achievement in both languages
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Sociocultural competence and critical consciousness
As our program continues to grow, we use these guiding principles to inform our decision-making regarding curriculum, instructional practices, and staff development.
Dual Language Immersion
Program Sites
As of the 2023-24 school year, our program operates in two schools: Highland Elementary and North Gresham Elementary.
| Grade Level | Highland Elementary | North Gresham Elementary |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 2 classes | 2 classes |
| 1st grade | 2 classes | 2 classes |
| 2nd grade | 2 classes | 2 classes |
| 3rd grade | 2 classes | 1 class |
| 4th grade | 2 classes | Added in 2024-25 school year |
| 5th grade | Added in 2024-25 school year | Added in 2025-26 school year |
Students who would attend Hollydale Elementary as their neighborhood school are eligible to enroll in the Dual Language Immersion program at North Gresham Elementary.
Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, students will enter Clear Creek Middle School, where they will continue to receive a percentage of their core content instruction in Spanish. In The 2028-29 school year, the program will expand to Gresham High School.
Who can enroll?
Students entering Kindergarten or 1st grade at Highland Elementary, North Gresham, Elementary, or Hollydale Elementary can enroll in the program (Hollydale students would attend North Gresham, with transportation provided). Spanish speakers in older grade levels, or students who have attended Dual Language schools in other districts may be admitted to the program on a case-by-case basis.
Program Applications
North Gresham Elementary School
Program Structure
Our program follows an 80:20 model, which is a variation of the 90:10 model, in which students receive the majority of their core content instruction in Spanish in grades K-2, with more English instruction added each year.
| Grade Level | Spanish Instruction | English Instruction |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 80% | 20% |
| 1st grade | 80% | 20% |
| 2nd grade | 70% | 30% |
| 3rd grade | 50% | 50% |
| 4th grade | 50% | 50% |
| 5th grade | 50% | 50% |