Dual Language Immersion Program

Children in K-1 classes spend approximately 90 percent of their day immersed in Spanish and the remainder of their day learning in English.

In grades 2-5, students are taught approximately 50 percent of their day in Spanish and the remainder in English.

At the middle school level, students take science in Spanish.  The remainder of their classes are in English. Middle school students in the Spanish immersion program have the potential to earn two high school language credits (Spanish I and II) through credit by demonstrated mastery.

Students learn the same subject matter set out in the North Carolina Standard Course of Study as their peers in other classes. They follow the same lessons and, in some cases, use the same learning materials – just translated into Spanish.

Our highly skilled and trained teachers use exaggerated hand and facial expressions to illustrate what they are saying. Songs, stories, and activities help build vocabulary and understanding in Spanish. Language learning is carefully structured to ensure that children understand the lessons.

the world, bringing their diverse backgrounds and experiences to our students.

Not only have they met the high professional standards of their home country, but they have also met all North Carolina teacher-licensing and certification requirements.

The number of Spanish language immersion classes available within each school is determined yearly by the projected level of interest. It is preferred that students register for the program during kindergarten registration. This allows school sites to gauge interest and procure heritage speaking teachers.

Students are chosen on a first come, first serve basis with the exception of Clyde Erwin Elementary Magnet School since it is a district-wide magnet school. Students interested in attending Clyde Erwin Elementary Magnet School must apply through the Onslow County Schools magnet school application process that takes place in the early spring. Magnet school students are selected through the lottery process and transportation is provided through a hub system.

In the event that there is a robust interest in the immersion classes, a lottery process will be utilized. Preference will be given to siblings of students already enrolled in the immersion program.

Applications and commitment forms are available at the three immersion schools as well as on the OCS and school websites.

It is preferred that all students begin in kindergarten. K-1 classes are taught approximately 90% in Spanish and the remainder in English. Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the principal.