Bellevue highlights multilingual expansion, SLIFE supports and approves TBIP/Title III funding application

The Bellevue School District Board of Directors heard a progress report on Jan. 9 about the district’s “Multilingualism for All” initiative, expansion of language programs and support services for students with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE). After presentations by district leaders, the board voted to approve continuation of the district’s Transitional Bilingual Instructional Program (TBIP) and Title III Native American literacy services.

Dr. Melissa Macias, executive director of Teaching and Learning, framed multilingual programming as both an equity and academic initiative and described a five-year vision in which “every student in every grade … has an opportunity to learn another language” and the district “fosters an inclusive environment that celebrates and integrates multilingualism.” Emma Shirk, director of language and literacy, said the district tracks the work through three areas: flexible pathways, high-quality student experiences and sustainable program development.

Program growth and offerings

Presenters said nearly half of district students participate in language programs: the district reported that 49.8 percent of…