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Dual Language

All students will excel academically, become bilingual and biliterate, and develop sociocultural competence in a community of diversity, inclusion, and equity.

Dual Language Programs (Spanish-English)

The Worcester Public Schools offers Spanish-English dual language programs from preschool through high school. Dual language students learn content in both English and Spanish in integrated groups of students with diverse language backgrounds. The long-term goals of the program are academic achievement, bilingualism and biliteracy, and sociocultural competence. Click the below presentation for details.
WPS Dual Language Information Slide 1

What Are the WPS Dual Language Programs?

WPS currently has two types of dual language programs - one-way and two-way - based on student population. Instruction and materials are provided in English and Spanish.  Students make connections between languages and develop cross-cultural competency. Instruction is designed so students can access grade-level content and develop English and Spanish proficiency, and work toward the State Seal of Biliteracy. Learn more about the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy.

Two-Way Dual Language

For PreK-12 students who speak English, Spanish, and/or different home languages. Integrates English Learners, former English Learners and non-English Learners in the same class. Locations: Chandler Magnet (PreK-6) Elementary School, Burncoat Middle School (7-8), Burncoat High School (9-12)

One-Way Dual Language

For K-4 students who speak Spanish as a home language.   Integrates English Learners, former English Learners and non-English Learners in the same class. Only open to students in Woodland neighborhood. Location: Woodland Academy For more details, explore these resources:

The 80/20 Model: Strengthening Spanish from the Start

All District Dual Language students learn in an 80/20 model of instruction, which provides them with an intensive focus on developing reading and writing in Spanish in early grades, with strategic opportunities to transfer to English to develop biliteracy. Students begin in PreK and Kindergarten by learning 80% of content in Spanish and 20% of content in English, and transition each year to an even balance between the languages. Here is a chart detailing the 80/20 model:

PreK & K

Grade 1

Grade 2

Grades 3-6

Grades 7-12

Spanish

80% 70% 60% 50% 2 classes

English

20% 30% 40% 50% 3 classes
If you have questions about the district’s dual language programs, please contact the Office of Multilingual Education at 508-799-3623.

Get Involved - CAFE-B: Bilingual Programs Family Advisory Council

All families of current TBE and dual language students are invited to join. The purpose of this council is to center the voices of families in bilingual programs, keep open communication on new developments, and to advise the district on how to best serve students in bilingual programs. More information on dates and focus.