District recommends K–8 two‑way dual language program, co‑teaching model and phased rollout beginning 2026–27

Summary

District 46 presented a multilingual and bilingual recommendation to the board on April 9 proposing a 50/50 Spanish–English two‑way dual language pathway beginning in kindergarten in 2026–27, plus a differentiated co‑teaching model for other multilingual learners and logistical steps including subcommittees, pilots and family communication.

District staff presented a comprehensive plan to expand multilingual programming in Community Consolidated School District 46 during the April 9 board meeting, proposing a two‑way dual language K–5 pathway, co‑taught supports for multilingual learners and a phased implementation beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

The proposal, developed by a planning and design team of teachers and administrators, recommends a 50/50 two‑teacher dual language model in which English and Spanish are used daily to promote bilingualism, biculturalism and biliteracy for native and non‑native Spanish speakers. Nydia Talanda, a bilingual kindergarten teacher at Avon, said the model would use a lottery for non‑native Spanish speakers; native Spanish speakers identified through district screening would be offered placement if they choose and meet linguistic criteria.

Jamie Parker,…

District recommends K–8 two‑way dual language program, co‑teaching model and phased rollout beginning 2026–27

Summary

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