Dual Language Immersion Programs

What is dual language immersion?

Language immersion is an educational approach in which students are taught the curriculum content through the medium of a second language. In this way, immersion students not only learn the content, but also gain knowledge of the language in which it is taught.

• In total immersion programs, children learn their entire core subjects (reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, and science) in the second language.

• Partial immersion or 50/50 programs are based on the same principle, but half the day's instruction is in the target language and the other half is in English.

• Jordan School District immersion programs are all 50/50 programs.

• Jordan School District immersion programs either use the ONE-WAY model or the TWO-WAY model.

  • One-way immersion programs are created for language majority students wishing to learn another language.
  • Two-way immersion programs match native English speakers with native speakers of another language and are integrated for academic content instruction through both languages.

The main difference between an immersion setting and a foreign language class is the approach to second language learning. In an immersion program, language is a method for teaching the content rather than the subject of instruction.

How are students chosen for dual language programs?

• In order for a child to be accepted into a dual immersion program, parents must first complete and submit an application and commitment form for the desired program by the due date.

• Once an application and commitment form has been received, students are randomly selected for a dual immersion program based upon the following criteria:

• Priority is given to students who live within the school boundaries and to siblings of students already enrolled in the program.

• If there is room in the program for additional students after boundary students and siblings have been accepted, priority is given to students residing within district boundaries.

• After meeting the above considerations, students living outside district boundaries will be accepted.

• In the event that a child is selected to be in an immersion program, the following conditions apply to that child’s siblings if applicable:

• Older siblings who are not in the school’s immersion program and are not already a boundary student are able to attend the school on permit if space is available

• Younger siblings who do not apply for the immersion program and are not already a boundary student are able to attend the school on permit if space is available.

• Younger siblings who wish to participate in the immersion program will be given priority for acceptance into the program and may permit into the school at the grade the program begins.

• Once a student is enrolled in a dual immersion program as stated by the criteria above he or she is eligible to remain in the program regardless of a change in school boundary.

• Applications and commitment forms can be picked up at local schools or submitted via e-mail by clicking on one of the links listed below. Directions for sending applications via email are located on the last page of the application.

• Please be aware that due dates differ by school. See table below.

District Chinese Dual Immersion Application

District French Dual Immersion Application

District Spanish Dual Immersion Application

When should parents submit student applications for a dual immersion program?

• An application must be submitted the spring before the student enters 1st grade. For specific spring deadlines, see the table below.

• Riverside Elementary will also accept applications for incoming kindergarten students using the same deadlines listed below.

• There is no waiting list for initial application; however, if a student is not randomly selected, that student's name may be placed on a waiting list until the beginning of the school year.

Where can parents learn more about the dual language programs?

• Schools are scheduling information meetings for interested parents. See additional information in the table below.

• School websites may provide additional information for that school's program.

• The Utah State Office of Education is also a good place to learn more about dual language immersion.
  • Click HERE to access the USOE site.
  • The USOE's Dual Immersion Department has also created the following informative brochures:
    • Chinese
    • French
    • Spanish