In 2022, Kelseyville Elementary took advantage of grant funding to launch a dual immersion program, allowing students to learn in both English and Spanish, with the goal of achieving biliteracy–the ability to speak, read, and write proficiently in both. The program is now in its third year, with students currently enrolled through third grade. Next year, it will expand to fourth grade, continuing its progression toward full elementary coverage.
Instruction follows a structured, research-based model that gradually shifts the ratio of Spanish to English over time. In kindergarten, 90 percent of instruction is delivered in Spanish and 10 percent in English. That ratio shifts each year: 80/20 in first grade, 70/30 in second, 60/40 in third, and so on until students reach a 50/50 balance in fourth and fifth grade. This design ensures that native Spanish-speaking students receive core academic content, such as mathematics and literacy, in their home language during the foundational years, supporting both comprehension and continued academic development. For native English speakers, early and sustained exposure to Spanish supports brain development and second-language acquisition at the stage when it is most effective.
Families considering this program sometimes have questions about academic performance. Research on dual immersion shows that students may score somewhat below grade-level peers on standardized assessments through third grade. This is an expected and well-documented pattern. Students are managing complex cognitive work across two language systems simultaneously. By fourth and fifth grade, research consistently shows these students catch up to and often exceed their peers, and they perform well on state assessments, including English learners being reclassified as English proficient.
In addition to language instruction, the program includes a strong cultural component. Students participate in celebrations such as Día de los Muertos, learn traditional dances, and study the food, history, and traditions connected to Spanish-speaking cultures. This cultural education is an integral part of the curriculum. Research supports the value of culturally responsive teaching in building student engagement, identity, and cross-cultural understanding.
Our district serves a predominantly Hispanic community, and this program reflects that. We are currently the only district in the county offering dual immersion, which positions us to serve our families’ linguistic strengths while extending those benefits to all enrolled students. Families where English is spoken at home have shared their surprise and delight when their kindergarteners come home using Spanish after just a few months in the program.
The program’s long-term pathway continues to develop. When current students reach middle school, the district plans to offer a Spanish elective that builds on their biliteracy foundation. At the high school level, an advanced Spanish course will be added as needed. Most significantly, the district is working toward making the Seal of Biliteracy available at graduation from Kelseyville High School, a recognition that has not previously been offered here. The Seal of Biliteracy, awarded to students who demonstrate proficiency in two or more languages, is recognized by colleges and employers as a meaningful academic credential.
While we have based our program on well-established norms, most of the teaching team built their dual immersion expertise as the program grew, and their commitment has been central to its success. I’m really proud of the work they’re doing.
Enrollment in the dual immersion program requires students to begin in kindergarten, with families committing to continue through fifth grade. Limited exceptions are made for first graders if space is available, and newcomers who speak only Spanish may also be considered to support language transition. Families with incoming kindergarteners or first graders who are interested in the program should contact Kelseyville Elementary School to be added to the enrollment list.