Dual language refers to any program that provides literacy and content instruction to all students through two languages and promotes bilingualism and biliteracy, grade level academic achievement and sociocultural competence.

1. Bilingualism and Biliteracy
   The 50/50 model provides equal time and value to both English and Spanish, helping students develop strong speaking, reading and writing skills in both languages. This promotes additive bilingualism, where students gain a second language without losing their first.

2. High Academic Achievement
   Research shows that students in dual language programs often outperform their monolingual peers academically by the upper elementary grades. Learning in two languages strengthens cognitive flexibility, problem-solving and critical thinking—skills that directly support academic success.

3. Cross-Linguistic Transfer
   Because students learn different concepts in each language, they are taught to compare, connect and transfer knowledge. This metalinguistic awareness helps them build a deeper understanding of language structure and meaning across both languages.

4. Sociocultural Identity and Confidence
   Developing bilinguals see their first language and culture valued in the classroom, which supports their identity, promotes pride, and encourages active engagement in learning. It affirms who they are and helps them feel seen and supported.

5. English Language Development through Content
   Rather than being pulled from core instruction to learn English, students learn English through meaningful content—a more effective and respectful approach that allows them to keep up with grade-level academics while developing language.

6. Greater Opportunities for the Future
   Being bilingual and biliterate opens doors to future college and career opportunities in a global economy. Students can access the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy, college credits and bilingual employment opportunities.

7. Long-Term Language Retention
   Because students are consistently using both languages in academic contexts, they are more likely to retain and grow their bilingual abilities over time—an advantage that goes beyond the classroom.
    

KSD implements a 50/50 dual language model. Students receive 50% of their instruction in Spanish and 50% in English. Language allocation is structured by content area and time of day to ensure consistency and language separation.

Please refer to the content and language allocation plan on this page. Regardless of the language used, instruction is purposefully planned to promote cross-linguistic transfer and reinforce content knowledge in both languages.

Dual language is a research-based model that provides Multilingual learners (MLs) with content instruction in their home language (Spanish, English, Bilingual) while building English proficiency. MLs also receive daily targeted English Language Development (ELD) aligned to the WIDA standards.

Students are assessed in both English and Spanish using tools such as:

• Star Reading (English) and Star Lectura (Spanish) for reading
• Star Math in English and Spanish
• The Biliteracy Trajectories
  • Biliteracy trajectories refer to the developmental path a student takes when learning to read and write proficiently in two languages, often with a focus on how their abilities in one language may influence their development in the other. Support bilingual students’ success

• STAMP Assessment for Spanish language proficiency (6th-8th grade)
  • Seal of Biliteracy - Those students may earn up to 4 credits for high school graduation credit requirements.  Those that earn 4 receive the Washington Seal of Biliteracy on their diploma upon graduation.
• State-level assessments such as WIDA and SBA are offered in English only

KSD uses:

• Essential standards for Spanish Language Arts and English Language Arts
• Instructional Materials such as:     
  • Benchmark Adelante
  • Benchmark Advance
  • Knowledge Based (Social Studies, Science, ELA/SLA) Units
  • Raz Plus & Science A-Z
  • Seesaw ELD
  • Ellevation
  • Clear Math (K-2 in Spanish) (3-5 in English)
  • Science Kits (K-2 in English) (3-5 in Spanish)
  • STI (Since Time Immemorial)
  • Intervention materials such as Estrellita and UFLI
     

Teachers engage in The Bridge, a structured instructional routine where students compare languages, transfer learned concepts, and develop metalinguistic awareness. This is planned purposefully after students have learned content in one language. Students leverage their language through translanguaging strategies to deepen their understanding and enhance their skills across both Spanish and English.
 

Yes. All Dual Language schools in Kennewick offer resources and support for students with disabilities. Specific services and programs may vary by school and are tailored to meet individual student needs as identified in their IEPs.