Spanish Immersion
West Hoke Elementary is proud to offer the Spanish Language Immersion Program for incoming Kindergarteners as well as students continuing in Grades 1 through 3 for the 2025-2026 school year. (We only accept applications for Kindergarten and 1st grade. You must already be enrolled in Spanish Immersion to continue beyond 1st grade.)
This exciting program helps students learn to understand, speak, read, and write in both Spanish and English. For more details, please read below or contact the school at (910) 875-2584.
This 50/50 Spanish immersion program divides instruction, with students rotating on a daily basis. This model aims to develop bilingualism and biliteracy by integrating language instruction with academic content. Students typically have separate teachers for English and Spanish instruction, focusing on the same subject areas in each language.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Key Features:
- Balanced Language Exposure:
Each day, students will be with either their English or Spanish teacher, alternating throughout the week. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in both languages on different days
- Separate Teachers:
Classroom instruction will be taught by 2 teachers. 1 who is fluent in Spanish and another teacher instructing students in English. Resource classes in Art, Music, Media and Physical Education will be taught in English.
- Content-Based Instruction:
The goal is to teach the same academic content standards in both languages, ensuring students learn grade-level material in both Spanish and English.
- Emphasis on Language Development:
While academic content is important, the program also focuses on developing students' speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in both languages.
- Long-Term Commitment:
Families are typically encouraged to commit to the program through the elementary years as consistency is key to success.
Benefits of 50/50 Immersion:
- Bilingualism and Biliteracy: Students develop high levels of proficiency in both Spanish and English.
- Cognitive Benefits: Research suggests that immersion programs can enhance cognitive skills and academic performance.
- Cultural Understanding: Immersion programs foster an appreciation for other cultures.
- Future Opportunities: Bilingualism can open doors to various career paths and opportunities.
Things to Consider:
- Attendance: Consistent attendance is crucial for success in an immersion program.
- Family Support: Parental support, including reading at home in English and encouraging the practice of the Spanish language is critical to your child’s success in this program.
- Individual Learning Styles: While the program benefits most, it's important to consider a child's individual learning style and preferences.
