Dual Language Program Kinder Application Information

The Parent Orientation and Information meeting regarding the Kindergarten Dual Language application process will be held on Thursday, April 18th at 6PM at the Education Support Center located at 2800 Texas Avenue, Deer Park, TX 77536. 

Definition of a Dual Language Program

Dual Language, also referred to as two-way immersion, is an educational model in which both native English speakers and native speakers of another language receive instruction together in both languages to promote second language acquisition, high academic achievement, and cross-cultural understanding for all students. Language learning takes place primarily through content instruction. Linguistic proficiency in both languages occurs as students develop their knowledge of subject matter through performing academic tasks.

Reminder: You should follow general Kindergarten registration procedures and have your child enrolled in their home campus.

Procedures for Entering the Dual Language Program

To enter the Dual Language Program in kindergarten:

1. Complete the New Kindergarten Student Online Enrollment and register at home campus during early registration.
2. Parent/guardian must attend the Dual Language Parent Information Meeting. 
3. The Dual Language Program application must be completed by the parent/guardian.
4. Students will be entered in a lottery after completing the required steps. This applies to the students filling English proficient slots. Spanish speaking students requiring bilingual services follow an alternate identification process.
5. Students who are not selected to enter the program during the lottery will be placed on the waiting list.
6. Students on the waiting list may enter the Dual Language Program during the first semester of kindergarten if space becomes available.
7. Students may not enter the Dual Language Program after the first semester of 1st grade unless there is available space.
8. Parents will be notified of the lottery results by the end of June.

The dual language program is available at San Jacinto Elementary (2 classes= 22 English speakers and 22 Spanish speakers) and one classroom at Parkwood Elementary (1 class= 11 English Speakers and 11 Spanish Speakers).

The available space in the Dual Language Program in a given school year will depend on the number of siblings and students zoned to the campus who apply and meet the entrance criteria.

Kindergarten-aged siblings of students enrolled in a Dual Language Program are provided placement priority in the Dual Language Program if they meet the entry criteria. Then applicants from the zoned campus, including campus staff children. Then if there are any remaining spots available, students from other DPISD schools are admitted if they meet entry criteria. If all spots are not filled at this point, then out of district applicants will be considered if they meet entry criteria.