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Six more elementary schools in Utah will soon offer programs that immerse students in another language.
Soon the classes will be learning everything in English as well as Spanish, French, or Chinese. Jordan district Secondary Language Arts and World Languages Consultant Carolyn Gough says it will begin in kindergarten or first grade.
"Starting kids at an early age with the language so they have that consistency, and they are able to be more proficient and fluent over time," she said.
Although details are currently being finalized, district programs will begin with kindergarten or first-grade students and expand a grade level each year so students will be able to receive an immersion experience from first through sixth grade.
Gough says they hope have students stick with the program into high school. "This isn't a program to get in a couple of years and say, oh that's good and get out," she said.
She says, over time, a student becomes more proficient and literate in their native language as they are taught in that second language as well.
The district is looking for teachers right now for the program. If anyone is interested in finding out more, they should contact Carolyn Gough at carolyn.gough@jordan.k12.ut.us, or (801) 567-8366.
Majestic, Heartland and Riverside elementary schools are making preparations to begin Spanish immersion programs. Draper and Lone Peak Elementary are planning to host Chinese immersion programs, and Oak Hollow will be the site of a French immersion program. All programs begin during the 2009-10 school year.
E-mail: mrichards@ksl.com
