English

• Exact configuration varies by grade level.
• There is more of an emphasis on Spanish instruction for English Speakers in the early grades allowing them more exposure to the language.
• Students learn to read in their primary language first.
• Students are usually assigned to a two person team:
• one teacher teaches exclusively in Spanish
• one teacher teaches exclusively in English
• Together the team delivers a unified curriculum, based on Boulder Valley School District Curriculum and Standards, with high expectations in both English and Spanish.
• Students rotate between the two teachers for instruction in a planned cycle of activities.
• There is no translation of content or repetition of lessons.
• Students receive daily planned second language instruction.
• Concepts introduced in the primary language are reinforced in the second language, and visa versa.
• Music and Art are taught primarily in Spanish, while Physical Education is taught in English.

• The teachers are bilingual and biliterate in both Spanish and English serving as an important model for the students.
• All have also completed or are finishing the graduate course work required to receive the Endorsement in Bilingual Education.

"Dual Immersion Programs provide a sound basis for academic excellence for all students as well as meet the goal for foreign language learning as a core subject.
 Through these dual immersion programs, we meet the need for better understanding and communication across cultures." 
          Donna Christianson,
           Center for Applied Linguistics

• Research indicates that the dual immersion model is a highly effective instructional program.
• Both English and Spanish speakers learn to speak, read and write in a second language.
• The goal is high academic achievement for all students in both languages.
• By the end of fifth grade, all students will have received formal literacy instruction in both languages.

If you want more information regarding duel-immersion education, or about Pioneer specifically, please contact:

Miguel Villalon, Principal 
     phone: (303) 666-4971
     email: miguel.villalon@bvsd.org  
David Smith, Resource 
     phone: (303)666-4971
     email: david.smith@bvsd.org

Escuela Bilingue Pioneer
101 E. Baseline Rd.