Two-Way Dual Language is a Spanish dual language program where instruction is conducted in both English and Spanish. Students are taught content through both their native language and the target language. At least 30-50% of the day is spent in the target language. Our two-way program is intended for both native Spanish speakers and native English speakers who are integrated for instruction 100% of the day. These classes are heterogeneously grouped.

Program Entry Requirements

For Native Spanish speakers: 

Upon completion of the Home Language Questionnaire (HLQ), if a language other than English is spoken at home, the child will be assessed to determine their English language proficiency using the New York State Identification Test for English Language Learners (NYSITELL). Native Language speakers who require English as a New Language (ENL) services might be placed in one of our Dual Language programs (pending parent approval) or mainstreamed to receive ENL services. Entry requirements for K-5 require Spanish screening (Benchmark assessments and Observational Survey).

For Native English speakers:

Upon parent request, students will be screened in order to determine eligibility into one of our Dual Language programs. It is strongly recommended that these students enter the program in Kindergarten or no later than first grade. Entry requirements include screening and benchmarking assessments. These students will be chosen by way of the district’s demographically balanced Dual Language lottery.

Program Overview

The dual language program continues in the middle school for students who have participated at the elementary level. Students participate in a standalone class focused on the development of advanced communication skills.

Beginning in seventh grade, students begin introductory coursework in Chinese, French, Latin, or Spanish, focusing heavily on vocabulary and pronunciation. Learning is driven by interactive, high-interest activities such as songs, skits, technology integration, and cultural events (festivals, field trips, and food days). 
 

Instruction emphasizes conversational speaking, listening comprehension, vocabulary development, and specific grammatical structures. Students practice communication through cooperative learning groups and demonstrate progress through targeted projects and conversations. While eighth-grade coursework transitions to focused preparation for the FLACS A proficiency exam, the experience goes well beyond test prep. The program prioritizes active, meaningful communication and deep cultural understanding, ensuring students build literacy and confidence in real-world settings.
 

Students continue their language journey in high school to prepare for the comprehensive FLACS B exam. Many Spanish students advance to highly rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) level language learning, while others achieve advanced proficiency by continuing their studies in Chinese, French, or Latin.