On a campus with increasing cultural diversity and language classes, it is common to hear both English and Spanish in conversation. Students more now than ever are learning and communicating in multiple languages.
Around 10% of San Juan Hills High School students are enrolled in the Two Way Immersion Program, in which students take academic classes taught in both English and Spanish from an early age.
“I’ve been in [The Two Way Immersion Program] since elementary school” so my school experience has been very language focused,” said Lailah Callier (11),
Rather than learning Spanish as a separate elective, students are taught history, literature, and science in both Spanish and English since elementary school. This multi-language and multi-cultural environment prepares students to earn the Seal of Biliteracy and AP-level language credit by the time they graduate. Both languages are taught to a high level of fluency.
the benefits of the Language Immersion program go far beyond academics. By learning side by side with both native English and native Spanish speakers, students develop a deeper connection to the cultures and communities of their peers.
“Even though I myself am not Hispanic, I have been able to connect with the culture. I can understand my Hispanic friends’ traditions and even little things like jokes or cultural references that I wouldn’t get otherwise,” said Callier.
A defining characteristic of the Language Immersion Program is the mix of native English and native Spanish speakers enrolled. Although they come from different backgrounds, students all work together to learn both English and Spanish and share cultures with each other.
“Students develop positive cross-cultural attitudes and gain a greater appreciation for international cultures. The collaborative classroom experience, with native Spanish and native English speakers, encourages empathy, understanding, and connection across communities,” said Language Immersion coordinator Nicolas Dewald.
Many students progress to AP Spanish IV, V, and even college-level courses while still in high school, achieving fluency that goes far beyond typical language classes.
By passing AP exams and earning the Seal of Biliteracy, students who commit to the program throughout their high school career are also rewarded with more competitive college applications.
“Being in TWIS has definitely benefited me throughout school,” said Callier, “I’ve learned to appreciate cultures that are different from my own, and achieve a lot of success in my language learning.”
To learn more about the Two Way Language Immersion Program and its coordinators, visit the informational page here.
