SPICE stands for Spanish Immersion Cultural Education.
The Dual Immersion program at Markham Elementary, SPICE (Spanish/English Peer Immersion and Cultural Education), offers children an exciting opportunity to learn to read, write and communicate naturally in two languages, English and Spanish. Dual Immersion is a 90/10 model standards-based educational program. This program provides a sound basis for academic excellence for all students. Our program begins in Kindergarten and follows an instructional model that is designed to promote bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism for students whose primary language is English, as well as those whose primary language is Spanish. This model calls for the delivery of instruction at the following ratios based on grade level:
Program Model - 90/10
|
Language of
|
K
|
1
|
2
|
3
|
4
|
5
|
6
|
|
Spanish
|
90%
|
80%
|
70%
|
60%
|
60%
|
50%
|
50%
|
|
English
|
10%
|
20%
|
30%
|
40%
|
40%
|
50%
|
50%
|
Dual Immersion Philosophy
In a global society, the ability to speak more than one language is essential for our future leaders. That’s why VUSD is pleased to offer the Dual Language Immersion Program at Markham Elementary School. In addition, students may continue on their pathway to biliteracy at Jepson Middle School.
- Language learning is natural for young children
- Language learning challenges mental development
- Language learning prepares students for diversity
The Dual Immersion program combines students from two language groups and teaches them in both of their languages. The program includes balanced numbers of English, Spanish and Bilingual speaking students.
Program Goals
- Students will gain proficiency in both Spanish and English
- Academic achievement in Spanish and English
- Positive self-esteem, cultural awareness, and sensitivity