School Board introduces dual immersion Spanish program for kindergarten and first grade

The BHUSD Board of Education meeting on May 27, 2025, spotlighted the highly anticipated launch of a dual immersion Spanish program, a move aimed at enhancing bilingual education within the district. The proposal, presented by Dr. Seaman, received enthusiastic support from board members and community stakeholders, highlighting its potential to foster fluency and improve academic performance among students.

Dr. Seaman emphasized the program's foundation in research, which indicates that early exposure to dual language education can lead to better communication skills and higher achievement levels. The proposed model will start with a 90-10 language split in kindergarten, gradually transitioning to a 50-50 split by middle school. This structure aims to prepare students for advanced language courses in high school, including AP Spanish.

The board discussed logistical considerations, including staffing and class sizes. Dr. Seaman reassured members that the program would not require additional teachers beyond current staffing levels, as retirements would allow for the hiring of qualified bilingual educators. Concerns about class composition were addressed, with plans to maintain a cap of 20 students per class to ensure manageable learning environments.

Community engagement is a priority, with plans for informational town halls to address parent questions and clarify enrollment processes. The board acknowledged the overwhelming interest from parents, indicating a strong demand for the program. Future enrollment may involve a lottery system if applications exceed available spots.

Board members expressed excitement about the program's potential impact, with several noting the importance of bilingual education in California, where nearly 38% of the population speaks Spanish. The dual immersion initiative is seen as a significant step forward for the district, promising to enrich students' educational experiences and prepare them for a diverse, multilingual world.