There are over 200 Dual Language Immersion programs offered in various school systems across the state of North Carolina. Isenberg Elementary offers the first program of its kind in Rowan-Salisbury Schools, and students and parents from all over the county are eager to get involved. 

The Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Academy currently offered at Isenberg Elementary School started in the 2019-2020 school year with its first Kindergarten class. In the 2023-2024 school year the Academy will expand into fourth grade. 

Students in the DLI Academy learn NC Standards in both English and Spanish following a 50:50 model. Educators in the Spanish classrooms employed through Participate Learning classrooms are currently from Colombia, Argentina, and Honduras. The Academy offers students the unique experience of language immersion by highly qualified educators with native-level proficiency. 

Katie and Cory Menees have two students enrolled in the Dual Language Academy and are excited to share about their family's experience.

“The Dual Language Immersion Academy at Isenberg Elementary is one of RSS’s best-kept secrets. Having lived in communities where there are waitlists for dual-language programs, the opportunity to enroll our children at Isenberg was one we couldn’t pass up. The research on dual-language learning is clear: kids not only learn a second language, but they develop greater mental flexibility and critical thinking leading them to perform well in all academic content areas. Without a doubt, we made the best decision for our children by enrolling them in Isenberg’s Dual Language Immersion Academy.  They’re being led by incredible teachers and having a blast at school – all while learning a second language, developing cultural awareness, and honing cognitive skills that will serve them well even as adults.”

All students are welcome to apply, despite where you live and what school you are zoned to attend.

Visit the Isenberg Elementary School Facebook page or website for more information and how to apply.

Press release courtesy of Janelle Etheridge, Isenberg Elementary