Is language immersion a new concept?
Immersion has been used in Canada for over 35 years. Immersion schools in the United States are gaining popularity as an effective method of language learning. In reality the immersion concept has been around for thousands of years since it is the way all of us learn our native language. In immersion, language learning is done in such a natural way that students are comfortable with the instruction. Children are excellent mimics. They are eager, curious and less self-conscious than adults in experimenting with and acquiring new languages.

Is a background in Spanish needed?
The school is designed for children of families who do not speak Spanish. Teachers consider this fact when they communicate with parents and assign homework.

How do children learn English?
During kindergarten and first grade, all instruction is in Spanish. Students may use English, but their classroom teachers respond in Spanish. As students become more accustomed to hearing and understanding the second language, they are encouraged to express themselves in Spanish.

In second grade, those students who are not yet fluent English readers, meet several times a week in a small group to learn the fundamentals of phonics. Later in the year, the entire class meets to work on reading comprehension strategies.

In third grade, reading strategies are strengthened. Students work on spelling rules, parts of speech and some basic writing skills.

The amount of English language arts instruction increases at the upper elementary grades.

Students will acquire the same English language skills as the students in English-only settings. At every grade level, reading to and with the child at home, in both English and Spanish is imperative for the child’s language development.

What role do parents play in the school?
A long-term commitment is essential for children to experience the great benefits an immersion education yields. Parents can support their child in these ways:

• Make a long-term commitment to immersion.
• Develop an understanding of immersion education.
• Develop an understanding of immersion education.
• Provide experiences outside of school to develop English language skills.
• Encourage the use of Spanish outside of school.
• Most importantly, be sure your child attends school everyday.

Park Spanish Immersion School has a strong active parent/teacher organization (PTO). Various volunteer opportunities exist in the school. Parent involvement in school activities shows the child that education is very important to the family.

Are PSI teachers native Spanish speakers?
Some are native speakers, although this is not a requirement. Teachers must have a Minnesota elementary teaching license and be highly proficient in Spanish. PSI teachers have traveled or lived abroad and have an excellent understanding of other cultures and the value of global education. In addition to the licensed teachers, there are native speaking assistants and Amity scholars working with the students. The Amity scholar program is entirely funded and administered by the PTO.

What level of skill in Spanish will students have by the end of sixth grade?
The goal is for students to speak Spanish fluently. They will also have strong enough reading, writing, and listening skills to master the core academic subjects in Spanish.