Spanish immersion program faces overwhelming demand for kindergarten spots

The South Washington County School Board held a workshop on February 6, 2025, focusing on the Spanish immersion program and its growing demand. The meeting began with a discussion on the program's effectiveness in preparing students to be biliterate, emphasizing the long-term benefits of bilingual education.

During the session, board members addressed questions regarding the lottery system for kindergarten admissions. Currently, there are 96 spots available, with approximately half reserved for siblings of current students. The board noted a significant demand for the program, with last year's waiting list reaching into the hundreds. Parents have expressed a willingness to relocate to the district specifically for access to the Spanish immersion program, highlighting its popularity and the supportive climate within the schools.

The conversation also touched on the potential for future expansion of the program. Board members acknowledged the challenges of meeting the needs of the waiting list while maintaining a standard for class sizes. They discussed the possibility of adding classrooms through a bond measure to accommodate more students, which would also free up space in other buildings.

Enrollment statistics were shared, indicating that the middle school has seen an increase in sections from two to three, with current sixth-grade classes reaching 34 students. The overall enrollment for the program has reached its highest level at 567, with a potential capacity of 611.

The board confirmed that students can begin the Spanish immersion program as late as first grade if they do not secure a spot through the lottery. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue evaluating the program's growth and the community's needs.