Dual Language
Boerne ISD’s Dual Language Program is grounded in a Two-Way Dual Language Immersion model, designed to develop students who are bilingual, biliterate, and culturally competent in both English and Spanish. This model intentionally brings together native Spanish-speaking and native English-speaking students to learn from and with one another in an integrated classroom setting.
Research consistently identifies Two-Way Dual Language as one of the most effective program models for supporting the long-term academic success of Emergent Bilingual students, while also providing a rich, enriching experience for English-dominant students.
Language Allocation Model (70/30 → 50/50)
In Boerne ISD, the Dual Language Program begins in Kindergarten and continues through fifth grade. Instruction is delivered in both Spanish and English, with a strong foundation in Spanish literacy in the early grades that gradually transitions to a balanced bilingual model.
Kindergarten: 70% Spanish / 30% English
1st Grade: 60% Spanish / 40% English
2nd–5th Grades: 50% Spanish / 50% English
This intentional progression supports strong literacy development in both languages, promotes cross-linguistic connections, and ensures students are prepared for long-term academic success in English and Spanish.
Dual Language Program Design
- Content-based instruction in both languages
- Strategic language allocation to build biliteracy over time
- Integration of language and academic learning across all subjects
- A focus on developing confident, capable, and globally prepared learners
Boerne ISD’s Dual Language Program reflects our commitment to preparing students to thrive in a multilingual, multicultural world—every child, every day.
Spanish Immersion
The Boerne ISD Spanish Immersion Program is an educational approach where students are taught academic subjects primarily in the Spanish language, starting in first grade. The goal of the BISD Spanish Immersion Program is to help students become proficient in both Spanish and English by providing them with an immersive environment where Spanish is used as the primary medium of instruction. It is an educational program that provides instruction for native English speakers or English Proficient (EP) students in Spanish and English.
Students are immersed in the Spanish language following the 70/30 framework. This means that 70% of the instructional day is in Spanish and 30% is in English in First Grade. As the grades go up, the percentage of Spanish and English changes, with 60% in Spanish and 40% in English in second grade, 50% in Spanish and 50% in English in third grade, and 50% in Spanish and 50% in English is carried out until the end of fifth grade. The Boerne ISD Spanish Immersion Program provides a balanced curriculum; while the language of instruction is Spanish, the curriculum follows the same standards as traditional English-language elementary schools. Students learn the same concepts and skills but in a different language. This ensures that students receive a well-rounded education while also becoming proficient in Spanish.
The Boerne ISD Spanish Immersion Program provides cultural integration by incorporating cultural elements from Spanish-speaking countries into the curriculum. This may include learning about the history, traditions, and customs of Spanish-speaking cultures, as well as exposure to Spanish literature, music, and art.
ESL (English Second Language)
The ESL (English as a Second Language) program is tailored to Emergent Bilingual students to expedite their mastery of English language and literacy. Aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS), ESL instruction caters to individual student's English language proficiency levels and academic achievements. Lessons encompass all four language domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.
ESL FAQ
LOTE (Language Other Than English)
Our World Language curriculum and instruction are designed to empower every student as a lifelong language learner, fostering proficiency and cultural understanding. Through immersive experiences in language and culture, students develop the skills and strategies necessary for effective communication in another language. Emphasizing practical application, we ensure that language skills are honed in real-life contexts. In our classrooms, cultural authenticity is paramount, with instruction delivered primarily in the target language to replicate the environment of its culture.
At the middle school level, we offer instruction in Spanish and American Sign Language.
At the high school level, we offer instruction is Spanish, German and American Sign Language.
LOTE FAQ
