Frequently Asked Questions about Paramount USD’s Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Program

What are the goals of a Dual Language Immersion Program?

What will instruction look like in a Dual Language Immersion Program?

We will use a sequential literacy model where literacy is developed in the target language, Spanish, before moving onto formally developed English. This is also referred to as a 90-10 model where students receive 90% of their instruction in the target language starting in Kinder. Then, the amount of English instruction increases by 10% at each grade level until students receive 50% of their instruction in each language, starting in the 4th grade.

What are the benefits of a Dual Language Immersion Program?

What grade levels will be offered next year?

With a DLI program, students begin in Kindergarten and gradually matriculate up into the other grades. Starting early in the program is essential for developing students’ proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language. During the 2025-26 school year, the program will offer two Kindergarten classes at each of our dual immersion schools and two first grade classrooms for matriculating Kindergarten students currently enrolled in the program as well as eligible first-grade students. In subsequent years, we will add an additional grade-level for students matriculating up into the program. Based on interest, additional classes may be added.

Which schools will offer the Dual Language Immersion Program?

What is the ratio of English-speaking students to Spanish-speaking students?

Can my second grade student attend?

Will teachers be credentialed to teach in the Dual Language Immersion Program?

Will transportation be provided for students?

Based on my child’s home schools, where will my child attend the Dual Language Immersion Program?

What if my student receives Special Education services?

What assessments will students take?

Will my students need a permit in order to attend?

What curriculum will be used?

Will students participate in state testing in English and Spanish?

As a parent, what can I expect in terms of support from the schools if I am not a native Spanish speaker?

If a student is part of a dual language program from a different district, can they transfer into PUSD’s program?

If a student joins the program and they are not successful will parents be allowed to take them out of the program?

What will happen if there is overflow from parents who have registered their student for the program?

How did the district opt to offer Spanish dual language immersion?

If I am interested in having my child participate, what do I need to do?

How long does my child participate in the Dual Language Immersion Program?

We are asking families to minimally commit to the program throughout their child’s elementary school experience. The district plans to offer dual immersion in middle school as students gradually matriculate up to that level. Typically, students who participate in dual immersion throughout middle school have the opportunity to accelerate in world language courses in high school. Students who continue their language studies at the high school level and meet designated criteria, may be eligible to receive the California State Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation.