Cyndi Loza

Two Washoe County elementary schools launched a dual-language immersion program this fall to enable students to become bilingual and biliterate in English and Spanish.

The program provides instruction in both languages to a class of kindergartners at Jessie Beck Elementary School and prekindergartners at Mount Rose Elementary School while encouraging cultural awareness.

Classes include half English speakers who have no or limited Spanish proficiency skills and half Spanish speakers who have no or limited English skills.

“They will acquire (the language) fast,” said Gisela Daniel, who instructs Beck students in both languages. “Kindergartners are like sponges.”

The program has drawn criticism, but “by far, there’s more support than not,” Beck Principal Kristen Brown said.

“I think change is hard no matter what it is, and I think more of it is getting the correct information about it,” said Brown, adding that about 10 parents have expressed interest for next year’s class.

Some are critical

Gregory Loren Hudson, a semi-retired law enforcement officer, said the program is a good example of how Mexico is gradually invading the country.

“We’re being conquered little by little,” said Hudson, 47, who finished last in the six-person school board primary election in District G. “Our language, culture, nationality, America is slowly being watered down.”

Assemblyman Ty Cobb Jr., R-Reno, said the program is beneficial for those parents who want their children to learn a second language, as long it does not disrupt the level of learning.

“(But), if this program was created because of the need to teach kids of parents who are here illegally, it is yet another example of the added cost the taxpayers are paying because of illegal immigration,” Cobb said.

Program’s goal

Mary Ann Robinson, district English as a Second Language coordinator, said the primary goal is to have fully bilingual and biliterate students.

“We’re really excited,” Robinson said. “Research has shown there is improved academic achievement for children who are fully bilingual and biliterate.”

State Sen. Bob Beers, R-Las Vegas, said he doesn’t agree with the program’s teaching method.

“That sounds like a terrible idea,” Beers said. “More of the educational research I’ve seen indicates that the best way to assimilate a Spanish-speaking youngster is to teach them English first and then teach them in English.”

Sara Morris, 35, of Reno, said she is excited to have her daughter in the Beck kindergarten class.

“There’s just so many opportunities in our society right now,” Morris said. “Our society has changed, and there are so many Spanish-speaking people.”

Morris said a dual-language class also represents an urban city.

“(My daughter is) going to be able to get to know those

(Spanish-speaking) kids and their culture and language,” Morris said. “In some schools, you don’t have the diversity that represents our culture and our country.”