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Students and staff showcase dual language immersion at Catalina; board praises program
Summary
Third- and fifth-grade dual language immersion students presented essays and speeches at the Feb. 25 board meeting. Principal Luis Quintero and several students described benefits of bilingual education; board members praised the program and noted expansion to other sites.
Students and staff from Catalina Elementary presented the district's dual language immersion (DLI) program to the board on Feb. 25, with third- and fifth-graders reading short essays about the personal and academic benefits of bilingual education.
Principal Luis Quintero introduced the students and explained they would share writing about what it means to be bilingual. Several students spoke: Derek described learning both languages as requiring “dedication,” Nicola Sornellas said bilingualism will enable her “to explore the world with confidence,” Kya Smith said it allows students to “explore different cultures, music, and books,” Rebecca Gonzales described bilingualism as “a beautiful and valuable skill,” and Jared Sanchez listed careers (translator, interpreter, bilingual teacher) that bilingualism can support.
Board members responded with praise. One board member said, “It's so encouraging to see this... the community that of families that is participating, that's really what it comes down to to be successful,” noting the program began as a trial several years earlier and has shown value. Board members also noted the program's social benefits beyond academics and confirmed the district now offers DLI at additional sites.
The presentation included student reflections on cultural connection, cognitive benefits and future career opportunities. The board did not take action; the item was an informational presentation and public recognition of the program.
