Frequently Asked Questions

What is dual language immersion

Dual language immersion is an educational model that integrates native English speakers and native speakers of a target language in the same classroom. The goal is to help both groups of students become bilingual and biletrate and achieve academic success.  

How did you decide upon the model?

The 90:10 model has been shown to create higher levels of bilingualism. Our founder has over 13 years of teaching experience and has taught both 50:50 and 90:10 program models. Based on her experience and numerous scientific research the 90:10 has been proven to be more successful. At La Escuelita we feel that when this model is implemented with fidelity it helps the students become bilingual, biliterate and they're able to achieve high academic success in both languages. In, addition both groups can engage in authentic peer conversations and use each others strengths to develop linguistically.  For more information please visit http://www.cal.org/twi/

Do you provide meals for the children?

Yes, we do. La Escuelita provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack in adherance with state lunch program. Meals are served family style. 

Do you take subsidies?

Yes, we accept Child Care Assistance. We strongly believe in providing equitable educational opportunities for all children in our community. We highly encourage you fill out an application with https://cca.childcaregroup.org/ccg/CMS/Page/786 to see if your family qualifies.  

How can we support our child if we don't speak any Spanish?

 The Spanish language is the instrument we use to deliver our preschool education. Even if you as a parent speak zero Spanish at home, your child will be learning in the classroom. You can always support what your child is learning at school through fun ways, like having your child teach you, and reinforcing academic and language skills at home! Children love telling you about they did at school and showing you what they learned. We also communicate with you the parents in English. We always make it a priority to include you in everything that is going on in the classroom. 

How do I prepare my child for the program?

Honestly, no preparation is needed. Your child will be excited and a little bit nervous. We will work with you and your child to make that transition from home to school. As a family show enthusiasm and value for learning a second language. Understand that your child will acquire the second language over time. Remember how long it took your child to speak properly in English. Second language acquisition follows the same process. Your child will first begin using single words, then simple phrases. 

Why is it okay to immerse English speakers in a language, but not Spanish speakers? 

The English speaker is not at risk of losing the English language. English is spoken at home, in the community, and in the media. Two-way bilingual immersion programs are not replacing English with another language, but provide the students the opportunity to acquire a second language. Two-way bilingual immersion programs are additive programs in that a second language is acquired while maintaining the first language of the students.

What program model does La Escuelita follow?

La Escuelita follows a 90:10 Two-Way Dual Language Model. A two-way dual language program is based on the premise that two groups of students (each with different home languages,one being English and the other being Spanish) learn together in a systematic way so that both groups become bilingual and biliterate in the two languages. The goal is for the students to learn from each other. 

Do you have certified teachers teaching the children? 

Yes we do. Mrs. Gonzales has a Masters of Bilingual Education from Southern Methodist University and is a Texas certified teacher.

What is the student to teacher ratio?

Our student to teacher ration is 1:10  

do the children get to have recess/playtime outdoors?

Gross motor development and PLAY are a huge part of our curriculum. We strongly believe in having unstructured play. This type of play encourages children to be inventive, and explore and learn about the world around them and use their own abilities.

Do you take the children on field trips?

Yes, we do! We want to provide various experiences for our students. We strongly feel that children learn by exploring the world around them and we want to tap into that natural curiosity by  creating different learning opportunities. 

what approach do you take to make language comprehensible to children?

We use literature both authentic and translated versions as well as realia and TPR (Total Physical Response) to make the language comprehensible to children. Communicating in the target language is a key element of our classes! 

How can I make sure that my child continues to learn Spanish after they graduate from La Escuelita Spanish Immersion Preschool?

To ensure that your child continues in his secondary language, Two-Way Dual Language programs are currently offered at 51 elementary campuses, four middle school campuses and one high school in Dallas Independent School District. There are also numerous private schools in the DFW area.