CHICAGO — Chicago Public Schools plans to expand the district's dual language programming to seven additional schools in the 2018-2019 school year, officials announced Wednesday.
The seven schools include the first two CPS high schools to offer full dual language programs, CPS Chief Education Officer Janice K. Jackson said. By fall of 2018, a total of 27 CPS schools will offer dual language programs.
Dual language programs integrate both English and Spanish into core instruction to provide immersion in both languages, with the goal of developing bilingualism in English and Spanish. To support students in their non-native languages, students receive language development instruction in the language they are learning.
The seven CPS schools selected to begin dual language programming in 2018 are:
• Back of the Yards IB High School, 2111 W. 47th St.
• Bateman Elementary School, 4220 N. Richmond St.
• Chase Elementary School, 2021 N. Point St.
• Cooper Elementary School, 1624 W. 19th St.
• Darwin Elementary School, 3116 W. Belden Ave.
• Schurz High School, 3601 N. Milwaukee Ave.
• Stowe Elementary School, 3444 W. Wabansia Ave.
Jackson said CPS is committed to expanding academic opportunities that complement "the diverse backgrounds, languages and cultures of our student population and city."
“Expanding dual language programming will provide more students with the opportunity to enhance their language skills, develop their cultural literacy, and build the needed skills to pursue their dreams," she said.
Funding for the dual language program is provided through Title III funds, federal funding dedicated to the support of English language learners.
1,300 Students Earn Seal of Biliteracy
A record number of CPS students received the Seal of Biliteracy in 2017, officials said. This year, 1,316 CPS students from schools across Chicago achieved the Seal of Biliteracy, about 200 more students than last year.
The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in English and another language by earning a 4 or higher on the Advanced Placement or an equivalent score on ISBE-approved language assessments.
An additional 857 students received the Seal of Commendation, a recognition for students who have demonstrated significant progress toward biliteracy and have earned a 3 on the AP exam or equivalent score on other language assessments.
