Three years ago, Reed Elementary School pioneered Leander ISDβs first Two-Way Dual Language program. The program provides students an opportunity to become bilingual, bi-cultural and bi-literate in both Spanish and English by the fifth grade.
Young students who are naturally inclined to move, talk and play do just that with the partner system. They use visual tools, such as word walls, books and pictures, as well as physical movement to learn together.
βThe time in the classroom is driven by the kids,β Bohne said. βItβs not just something thatβs good for bilingual students β itβs something that every student can benefit from.β
LISD teachers across the district also benefit from collaborating as a cohesive dual language team. Dual language teachers join together for βcollaboration daysβ throughout the school year, which provide them a purposeful time to support one another, share ideas and learn continuously together. This professional development is important to meet the needs of an increasingly global community, Bohne said.
βThe real beauty of the program is the development of two languages,β she said. βItβs a gift students will be able to use for their whole lives.β
