Dear Families,
April 1, 2015
The Kent School District is now accepting applications for a Dual Language Program
for Kindergarten students at Kent Valley Early Learning Center. Families interested in
learning more about the program should plan to attend one of the Dual Language
information meetings at Kent Valley Early Learning Center on Wednesday May 20th at
3:30pm or 6:00pm.
In the Dual Language Program, students are taught literacy and academic content in
English and Spanish. The Dual Language Program goals are the same for both native
English speakers and native speakers of other languages. Development of literacy in the
primary language supports transfer of linguistic skills into the second language. Content
area instruction and language focus are used as mechanisms to all students becoming
bilingual, biliterate and bicultural.
The goals of the program are:
• To develop academic content and linguistic proficiency in English and Spanish
• To develop and use higher-level cognitive skills in Spanish and English.
• To become bilingual, biliterate and bicultural
• To create a learning environment that promotes positive cross-cultural attitudes
If you are interested in enrolling your child in this dual language learning opportunity,
there are a couple of things to consider prior to applying.
1. This is a cohort program. Parents must commit and agree to have their child continue
through the program which begins in Kindergarten and will continue throughout their
elementary school years.
2. The program offers the opportunity for children to become bilingual. As a parent,
please know it can be challenging for some Kindergarten students, but as their comfort
with school and the program develops, the benefits will be rewarding for your child.
3. The program is based on enrollment and school site availability.
If you would like to apply, please complete the enclosed application materials and
return them to the office at Kent Valley Early Learning Center at 317 4th Ave S, Kent,
WA 98032. If you have questions regarding the program, please contact Alice
Humphres, Early Learning Coordinator at 253-373-7600. There are limited spaces
available for the program. Please apply early.
Sincerely,
Alice Humphres
Early Learning Coordinator