1. What is the current status of Dual Language Education Programs in elementary schools in Tennessee?

According to a survey conducted by the Tennessee Department of Education in 2021, there are currently 21 schools in Tennessee offering Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary level. This represents approximately 1% of all elementary schools in the state. The majority of these programs (18 out of 21) are located in urban areas, and most utilize Spanish as the target language.

2. What percentage of elementary schools in Tennessee offer Dual Language Education Programs?

Based on the above information, approximately 1% of elementary schools in Tennessee offer Dual Language Education Programs.

3. How many languages are typically included in these programs?

The survey did not specify the exact number of languages included in each program, but it is likely that most programs focus on one target language. However, some programs may have multiple languages available for students to choose from for their language instruction.

4. Do these programs have a specific focus or target student population?

Most Dual Language Education Programs in Tennessee have a specific focus on English Language Learners (ELLs) and/or students from diverse cultural backgrounds. However, some programs may also be open to all students regardless of their background or language proficiency level.

5. Are there any plans to expand Dual Language Education Programs to more schools in Tennessee?

The Tennessee Department of Education has stated its commitment to expanding access to high-quality Dual Language Education Programs across the state. In its strategic plan, the department outlines goals for increasing funding and support for such programs and encouraging more schools to adopt them. It is possible that we will see an increase in the number of schools offering these programs in the coming years.

2. How many elementary schools in Tennessee currently offer Dual Language Education Programs?

As of 2021, there are approximately 50 elementary schools in Tennessee that offer Dual Language Education Programs.

3. What languages are most commonly offered in Dual Language Education Programs in Tennessee elementary schools?

The most commonly offered languages in Dual Language Education Programs in Tennessee elementary schools are Spanish and English. However, some schools also offer programs in French, German, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Arabic. The availability of specific language programs may vary by school district.

4. How do Dual Language Education Programs benefit students in Tennessee?

Dual Language Education Programs have several benefits for students in Tennessee:

1. Bilingualism and Biliteracy: Dual Language Education Programs provide students with the opportunity to become fluent and proficient in both English and another language, such as Spanish. This gives them a valuable skill that will be beneficial for their future academic and career opportunities.

2. Improved Cognitive Skills: Studies have shown that being bilingual can improve cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and multitasking abilities. Students in Dual Language Education Programs are constantly switching between languages, which helps develop these important cognitive skills.

3. Cultural Awareness and Understanding: Dual Language Education Programs promote cultural understanding and help break down barriers between different groups of people. Students who participate in these programs gain a deeper appreciation for other cultures and learn to communicate and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

4. Academic Achievement: Research has shown that students in Dual Language Education Programs perform as well or even better academically compared to their monolingual peers. The rigorous nature of the program challenges students to excel academically while learning a new language.

5. Better Job Opportunities: As businesses continue to globalize, there is an increasing demand for bilingual employees who can communicate with diverse communities both domestically and internationally. Students who graduate from Dual Language Education Programs have valuable language skills that make them competitive candidates for jobs in a variety of fields.

6. Promotes Equity: Dual Language Education Programs promote equity by providing access to high-quality education for all students, regardless of their background or native language. These programs offer opportunities for linguistic minority groups to maintain their native language while also gaining proficiency in English.

7. Increased Self-Confidence: Learning a second language can be challenging but also rewarding. Dual Language Education Programs help students build confidence in their abilities to communicate effectively in two languages, which can lead to improved self-esteem and self-efficacy.

Overall, Dual Language Education Programs provide numerous benefits for students in Tennessee, preparing them for success in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

5. Are there any specific requirements or guidelines for implementing a Dual Language Education Program in an elementary school in Tennessee?

The Tennessee Department of Education has specific guidelines and requirements for implementing a Dual Language Education Program in an elementary school. These include:

1. Approval from the district: The program must be approved by the local school district’s board of education before implementation.

2. Identification of students: The program must have a process for identifying and selecting eligible students to participate, such as through parent surveys or assessments.

3. Qualified teachers: All teachers involved in the program must hold appropriate certification and training in bilingual education.

4. Balanced language instruction: The program must provide equal amounts of instruction in both languages (usually 50/50) to promote balanced bilingualism.

5. Appropriate curriculum and materials: The curriculum and instructional materials should be culturally responsive, relevant, and aligned with state standards.

6. Parental involvement: Schools must establish a system for engaging parents of participating students in the program, such as through regular meetings or workshops.

7. English language proficiency development plan: Students’ English language proficiency must be regularly assessed, and a plan should be in place to support their continued development.

8. Program evaluation: The program should have an ongoing process for evaluating its effectiveness in meeting student academic achievement goals.

9. Resources for diverse populations: Schools should ensure that resources are available to support all students, including those from diverse backgrounds or with special needs.

10. Clear communication with families: Families of participating students should receive clear communication about the purpose, benefits, and expectations of the program, as well as information on how they can support their child’s learning at home.

6. How are teachers trained to teach in a Dual Language Education Program setting in Tennessee elementary schools?

In Tennessee, teachers who are interested in teaching in a Dual Language Education Program (DLEP) setting must first apply for and obtain a license that allows them to teach in a bilingual education program. This license is issued by the Tennessee State Board of Education and requires candidates to have proficiency in both English and the target language they will be teaching.

Once licensed, teachers can receive further training through professional development opportunities provided by their school district or through state-approved programs. These programs typically cover topics such as second language acquisition, cultural competency, instructional strategies for teaching in a dual language classroom, and assessment practices specific to DLEP settings.

Teachers may also work with specialized coaches or mentors who provide support and guidance specific to the particular DLEP model implemented at their school.

Additionally, many schools with DLEPs offer ongoing collaboration and planning opportunities for teachers within bilingual classrooms to share best practices and continuously improve instruction. This includes team meetings, observations of other classrooms, and joint lesson planning.

7. Are there any state funding or resources available to support the implementation of Dual Language Education Programs in elementary schools in Tennessee?

Yes, the state of Tennessee does provide some funding and resources to support the implementation of Dual Language Education Programs in elementary schools. These include:

1. Dual Language Grant Program: The Tennessee Department of Education offers a competitive grant program for schools or districts that are interested in starting new or expanding existing dual language programs. The grants can cover costs associated with curriculum development, materials, professional development, and more.

2. English Learner (EL) Program Funding: The state provides additional funding to districts based on their number of EL students, which can be used to support the implementation of dual language programs.

3. Title III Funds: Title III of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) allocates funds specifically for language instruction and academic achievement for EL students. This funding can also be used to support dual language programs.

4. Professional Development Opportunities: The state offers professional development opportunities for educators on topics related to dual language education, such as effective instructional strategies, assessment practices, and cultural competence.

5. Resource Materials: The Tennessee Foreign Language Institute provides a range of resources and materials for dual language programs, including textbooks, lesson plans, and online tools.

6. Partnership with World Language Departments: Many school districts have partnerships with world language departments at local colleges or universities, which can provide support and resources for dual language programs.

7. School Support Teams: The Tennessee Department of Education has established bilingual teams within school support offices across the state to provide additional assistance to districts implementing dual language programs.

Overall, while there may not be specific state funding exclusively dedicated to supporting dual language education programs in elementary schools, there are several resources available for schools and districts interested in implementing this model. It is recommended that schools/districts reach out to their local education agencies (LEAs) or the Tennessee Department of Education for more information on these opportunities.

8. How is the success of Dual Language Education Programs measured and evaluated in Tennessee elementary schools?

The success of Dual Language Education Programs in Tennessee elementary schools is measured and evaluated through several methods, including standardized test scores, language proficiency assessments, and student and parent surveys.

Standardized Test Scores: The Tennessee Department of Education tracks students’ academic progress through the annual administration of statewide assessment tests such as the TNReady and TNReady for ELs. These tests assess students’ performance in English language arts, math, science, and social studies. By comparing the test scores of dual language students to those of non-dual language students, the effectiveness of dual language programs can be determined.

Language Proficiency Assessments: In addition to standardized tests, students in dual language programs are also assessed for their proficiency in both languages. For example, students enrolled in Spanish-English dual language programs may take the Language Assessment Scales (LAS) or the Woodcock-Munoz Language Survey to measure their Spanish and English proficiency respectively. The results of these assessments can help determine the progress made by students in acquiring both languages.

Student and Parent Surveys: Feedback from both students and parents is an important aspect of evaluating the success of Dual Language Education Programs. Schools often conduct surveys to gather information about students’ satisfaction with the program, their level of engagement or enthusiasm towards learning a second language, and their academic progress. Similarly, parents are surveyed to understand their perception of the program’s effectiveness and if they believe it has positively impacted their child’s education.

Classroom Observations: Schools may also conduct classroom observations to evaluate dual language programs by observing teachers’ instructional practices and student participation levels during lessons taught in both languages. This allows for a more detailed understanding of how well students are progressing academically as well as how comfortable they feel using both languages.

Overall Program Evaluations: At regular intervals, school districts review data collected from various assessment measures mentioned above to assess if dual language programs are meeting predetermined goals such as promoting bilingualism biliteracy, and academic achievement.

All of these methods combined provide a comprehensive evaluation of the success of Dual Language Education Programs in Tennessee elementary schools. The results are used to make improvements to the program and ensure that students are getting the most out of their dual language education.

9. Are there any limitations or challenges faced by Dual Language Education Programs specifically at the elementary school level?

There are several potential limitations or challenges faced by Dual Language Education (DLE) programs at the elementary school level:

1. Limited availability: One of the main challenges facing DLE programs is their limited availability in schools. Many states and districts do not offer DLE programs at the elementary level, which makes it difficult for parents to enroll their children in such programs.

2. Qualified teachers: Another significant challenge is finding qualified teachers who are proficient in both languages and have the necessary skills to teach in a bilingual setting. Recruiting and retaining these teachers can be a challenge for schools.

3. Funding and resources: Implementing a DLE program requires additional resources, including materials and staff training, which can be costly for schools that are already struggling with budget constraints. Securing funding for these programs can be a challenge.

4. Language proficiency levels: In some cases, students may come into the DLE program with varying levels of language proficiency, making it challenging for teachers to differentiate instruction effectively.

5. Parental involvement: The success of DLE programs also relies on parental involvement, as it requires families to support their children’s learning in both languages at home. If parents are not proficient in the second language or do not value bilingualism, it can impede the progress of students in these programs.

6. Assessments and accountability: Measuring student progress and assessing academic achievement in a dual language setting can be difficult, especially when standardized tests are only available in one language.

7 Social stigma: In some communities and cultures, there may still be negative attitudes towards multiculturalism or bilingual education, leading to resistance towards implementing DLE programs at the elementary level.

8 Cultural sensitivity: Dual language education requires an understanding and appreciation of different cultures within the classroom. Teachers must navigate cultural differences between students with care to maintain an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and represented.

9 Transition to middle school: Students from DLE programs may face challenges when transitioning to a middle school that does not offer the same program. This can cause difficulties in maintaining bilingual proficiency and academic progress for students.

10. What is the role of parents and families with students enrolled in a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school in Tennessee?

The role of parents and families in a Dual Language Education Program in Tennessee is crucial to the success of the program. Here are some key responsibilities that parents and families have:

1. Active Participation: Parents should actively participate in their child’s education by attending informational meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and school events related to the Dual Language Education Program. They should also regularly communicate with their child’s teacher to stay updated on their progress.

2. Support the Use of Target Language at Home: Parents can support their child’s language development by using the target language at home as much as possible. This could involve engaging in conversations, reading books or watching TV shows in the target language.

3. Encourage Practice: Parents can encourage their child to practice speaking, reading, and writing in both languages regularly. They can also provide opportunities for their child to use the target language outside of school through playdates or cultural events.

4. Understand Program Goals: It is important for parents to have a clear understanding of the goals and objectives of the Dual Language Education Program so they can support their child’s learning accordingly.

5. Provide Resources and Materials: Parents can contribute resources such as books, games, or other materials in the target language to enrich their child’s learning at home.

6. Promote Cultural Awareness: Parents play a vital role in promoting cultural awareness and acceptance within their family and community. They can expose their child to different cultures through food, traditions, celebrations, etc.

7. Advocate for the Program: Parents are valuable advocates for Dual Language Education Programs in Tennessee schools. They can share information about the benefits of bilingualism and advocate for continued funding and support for these programs.

Overall, parents’ involvement and support are essential for students’ success in a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school in Tennessee. By working together with educators, parents can create a strong foundation for their children’s academic and linguistic growth.

11. Is parent participation and involvement encouraged and supported within Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level?

Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level typically place a strong emphasis on parent participation and involvement. These programs believe that involving parents in their child’s education is crucial to their success, and actively encourage parents to take an active role in their child’s learning.

There are a few ways in which parent participation and involvement is encouraged and supported within Dual Language Education Programs:

1. Information sessions: Many dual language immersion programs hold informational sessions for parents to learn more about the program, its goals, and expectations for students. These sessions also provide an opportunity for parents to ask questions and voice any concerns they may have.

2. Parent-teacher conferences: Regular parent-teacher conferences are held throughout the year to discuss students’ progress and address any concerns or goals they may have. These conferences are an opportunity for parents to become more involved in their child’s academic journey and collaborate with teachers on ways to support their child’s learning.

3. Volunteer opportunities: Many Dual Language Education Programs welcome and encourage parents to volunteer in the classroom or school events such as cultural celebrations, field trips, or family language nights. This not only allows parents to directly participate in their child’s education but also helps build a stronger sense of community within the program.

4. Parent workshops: Some programs offer workshops specifically designed for parents of students in a dual language program. These workshops may cover topics such as how to support bilingualism at home, strategies for helping with homework, or understanding cultural differences.

5. Parent associations/committees: Some Dual Language Education Programs have a dedicated group of parent volunteers who help organize events, fundraisers, and other activities specific to the program. This not only allows parents to be more involved but also provides them with a forum to share ideas and provide feedback on the program.

Overall, Dual Language Education Programs recognize the important role that families play in supporting their child’s bilingual development, and make efforts to involve and support them in the process. This partnership between parents and the school is seen as essential for the success of dual language learners.

12. How does the curriculum differ between a traditional English-only program and a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school level in Tennessee?

The curriculum in a traditional English-only program and a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school level in Tennessee will differ in the following ways:

1. Language of Instruction: In a traditional English-only program, the instruction is entirely in English, while in a Dual Language Education Program, students receive instruction in both English and another language such as Spanish or Chinese.

2. Dual Language Curriculum: In a Dual Language Education Program, students receive instruction in academic subjects like math, science, and social studies in both languages. The curriculum is designed to teach students the same concepts and skills but using different languages.

3. Cultural Awareness: In addition to learning another language, students in a Dual Language Education Program will also learn about the culture associated with that language. This includes exposure to cultural celebrations, customs, food, and traditions of other countries or regions.

4. Balanced Number of Native English Speakers and Second-language Learners: In a Dual Language Education Program, there is an equal number of native English speakers and second-language learners enrolled in the program. This balance allows for continuous practice and immersion for all students.

5. Content-based Instruction: The core subject areas are taught through content-based instruction where students learn vocabulary related to specific topics rather than just isolated words or phrases.

6. Cross-cultural Communication Skills Development: Students enrolled in a Dual Language Education Program will develop cross-cultural communication skills by interacting with peers from different linguistic backgrounds.

7.Accommodation for Diverse Learning Styles: Students who may struggle with traditional classroom instruction methods have access to alternative approaches within the dual language program such as hands-on activities or visual aids.

8.Assessment Practices: Students’ proficiency levels are assessed differently compared to those enrolled only in an English program since they are evaluating understanding level according to two different languages.

9.Parental/Community Involvement: Parents of students enrolled within a dual language immersion class become actively involved not just as volunteers or chaperons, but some actively participate in their child’s students daily learning activities. This involvement builds strong bonds between parents and the school community.

10. Longer Language Instruction: Students receive language instruction for more extended periods in a Dual Language Education Program, facilitating greater exposure and better acquisition of the second language.

11. Teacher Qualifications: Teachers in a Dual Language Education Program will be required to be proficient speakers in the second language and have specialized training to teach content in both languages.

12. Diversity Enhancement: A dual language program offers an ideal environment tailored towards enhancing cultural diversity amongst students through exposure to different cultures, perspectives and fostering mutual respect.

13. Do students who participate in a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school have different academic outcomes compared to those who don’t?

It is difficult to make a definitive statement on whether students in a Dual Language Education Program have different academic outcomes compared to those who do not without more specific information. Academic outcomes can vary greatly depending on the quality and structure of the program, as well as individual student characteristics and factors such as school resources and support.

However, research has generally shown that students in dual language programs tend to perform at or above grade level academically, particularly in terms of proficiency in both languages and cross-cultural understanding. These programs also tend to have positive effects on students’ cognitive skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, which can support academic success.

Additionally, some studies have found that students in dual language programs may have higher standardized test scores and higher rates of high school graduation compared to their peers in monolingual education programs.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of a Dual Language Education Program will depend on many factors, including the specific program design, implementation strategies, teacher quality, parental involvement, and student engagement. Factors such as socioeconomic status and individual learning abilities may also play a role in determining academic outcomes for students in any type of program.

14, Are there any initiatives or policies related to promoting diversity and cultural understanding within Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level in Tennessee?

Yes, there are several initiatives and policies in place to promote diversity and cultural understanding within Dual Language Education Programs (DLEPs) at the elementary school level in Tennessee.

1. Tennessee Seal of Biliteracy: The state of Tennessee offers the Tennessee Seal of Biliteracy, a recognition for high school seniors who have attained proficiency in English and a second language. This encourages students to maintain and develop their language skills and promotes cultural understanding.

2. TN-ILN (Tennessee International Literacy Network): The TN-ILN is a statewide organization that supports DLEPs by providing resources, professional development opportunities, and networking for teachers, administrators, and community members.

3. Culturally Responsive Teaching: Many DLEPs in Tennessee incorporate culturally responsive teaching practices into their curriculum. This approach aims to strengthen cultural competency among students by integrating diverse perspectives, histories, languages, and cultures into lesson plans.

4. Dual Language Parent Advisory Group: Several DLEPs have established parent advisory groups to foster collaboration between families from different backgrounds and to provide input on program decisions that impact culture, language, and diversity.

5. ESL Compliance Monitoring System: The ESL Compliance Monitoring System monitors the progress of English Language Learners (ELLs) in Tennessee schools to ensure they are receiving appropriate services and support. This helps promote equity and inclusivity within DLEPs by monitoring the academic progress of ELL students.

6. Professional Development Opportunities: The Tennessee Department of Education provides professional development opportunities for teachers in DLEPs on topics such as culturally responsive teaching practices, effective strategies for working with ELLs, and promoting language acquisition among all students.

Overall, these initiatives aim to create inclusive learning environments that celebrate diversity and encourage students to value multiple languages and perspectives within DLEPs at the elementary school level in Tennessee.

15. Do children with cognitive or learning disabilities have access to Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level in Tennessee?

It is possible for children with cognitive or learning disabilities to have access to Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level in Tennessee. However, it ultimately depends on the individual needs and abilities of each child and whether the specific program has resources and accommodations in place to support their learning. It is important for parents or guardians to communicate with their child’s school and explore the options available for their child’s education.

16, What are some best practices for engaging both English-dominant and non-English dominant students within a Dual language education setting at an Elementary School level in Tennessee?

Here are some best practices for engaging both English-dominant and non-English dominant students within a Dual language education setting at an Elementary School level in Tennessee:

1. Create a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment: Make sure that all students feel comfortable and supported in the classroom, regardless of their dominant language. Celebrate diversity and promote cultural awareness by incorporating multicultural displays, books, and activities.

2. Use a variety of instructional strategies: Incorporate a mix of instructional strategies that cater to both English-dominant and non-English dominant students, such as visuals, hands-on activities, group work, and discussions. This will ensure that all students are able to engage with the lesson content.

3. Provide opportunities for peer learning: Pair up students who are fluent in different languages so they can learn from each other. This will not only help improve their language skills but also promote cross-cultural understanding and friendships.

4. Use bilingual materials: Provide bilingual materials, such as books, worksheets, and instructional resources in both English and the non-English dominant language spoken by your students. This will ensure that all students have equal access to learning materials.

5. Incorporate culture into the curriculum: Integrate cultural elements from both languages represented in the classroom into lesson plans and activities. This will help create a more culturally responsive curriculum and make it more relatable for all students.

6. Engage families in their child’s education: Establish a strong communication system with families of both English-dominant and non-English dominant students. Keep them informed about their child’s progress, upcoming events or activities, and ways they can support their child’s language development at home.

7. Provide support services for language learners: Offer additional support services for non-English dominant students such as ESL classes or tutoring sessions outside of regular school hours to help them develop their English proficiency.

8. Promote language learning outside of the classroom: Encourage students to practice their language skills outside of the classroom by providing resources, such as online language learning programs or connecting them with native speakers in the community.

9. Celebrate diversity and bilingualism: Organize events or activities that celebrate diversity and bilingualism, such as international festivals, cultural performances, or language exchange programs. This will help promote a positive attitude towards diverse languages and cultures.

10. Seek professional development opportunities: Stay updated on the latest research, trends, and best practices for dual language education by attending workshops, conferences, or webinars. This will help you continuously improve your teaching methods and better support both English-dominant and non-English dominant students in your classroom.

17. How do Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level in Tennessee incorporate cultural awareness and sensitivity within classroom instruction?

Dual Language Education Programs in elementary schools in Tennessee incorporate cultural awareness and sensitivity within classroom instruction through a variety of methods, including:

1. Bilingual Instruction: In Dual Language Education Programs, students are taught academic subjects in both English and another language, such as Spanish or Mandarin. This allows students to not only become proficient in both languages but also exposes them to different cultures and perspectives.

2. Culturally Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum used in these programs often includes materials that reflect the cultures, histories, and traditions of the language being learned. This helps students see themselves reflected in their education and promotes cultural understanding.

3. Native-Speaking Teachers: Many Dual Language Education Programs hire native-speaking teachers who can bring firsthand knowledge of their culture into the classroom. These teachers can share stories, songs, and other cultural elements with their students to promote understanding and appreciation.

4. Cultural Events and Festivals: Schools may host cultural events or festivals to celebrate the diverse backgrounds of their students. These events can include food tastings, traditional dances or performances, or cultural presentations by students or community members.

5. Collaboration with Families: Educators may work closely with families to create an inclusive environment that values all cultures represented in the classroom. Parents may be invited to share their own experiences and traditions with the class, further promoting cultural awareness.

6. Cross-Cultural Exchange Programs: Some Dual Language Education Programs may offer opportunities for exchange programs where students from different cultures can learn from each other’s personal experiences and gain a deeper appreciation for each other’s backgrounds.

7. Cultural Competency Training for Teachers: Teachers who work in these programs often receive training on how to effectively teach multicultural classrooms and incorporate cultural sensitivity into instruction.

Overall, Dual Language Education Programs strive to create an environment that celebrates diversity while promoting empathy and understanding among students of different backgrounds

18. Can students receive high school credit for participating in a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school in Tennessee?

No, students cannot receive high school credit for participating in a Dual Language Education Program at an elementary school in Tennessee. High school credit is typically only awarded for courses taken at the high school level.

19. Is there any research or data specifically on the long-term benefits of Dual Language Education Programs for students who started at the elementary school level in Tennessee?

There is limited research on the long-term benefits of Dual Language Education Programs specifically for students in Tennessee who started at the elementary school level. However, there are some studies that provide insights into the potential long-term benefits of dual language programs in general.

One study conducted by the Center for Applied Linguistics examined the performance of students in dual language programs across eight states, including Tennessee. The study found that students in these programs consistently outperformed their peers in English-only programs on standardized tests in both English and their second language. Additionally, students in dual language programs showed stronger cross-cultural understanding and improved problem-solving skills compared to their peers.

Another study conducted by Thomas & Collier (2012) looked at data from five years of statewide testing for English Language Learners (ELLs). The study found that students who attended dual language programs performed significantly better on both reading and math tests compared to ELLs who did not attend these programs.

While these studies do not specifically focus on Tennessee or students who started at the elementary level, they suggest that attending a dual language program can lead to long-term academic success and increased cross-cultural understanding for students.

Sources:
– Howard, E. R., Lindholm-Leary, K. J., Rogers, D., Kennedy, B., & Sugarman, J. (2017). Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education (3rd ed.). Washington D.C.: Center for Applied Linguistics.
– Thomas, W. P., & Collier, V.P. (2012). Culture and Academic Achievement: Increasing The Performance Of Native American Students In Reading And Mathematics. Journal of Students Placed At Risk (SPAR), 11(3), 209-229.

20. How does Tennessee compare to other states in terms of overall implementation and success rates of Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level?

According to a report by New America, Tennessee is not considered a leader in Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level. The report ranks each state based on their overall implementation and success rates of dual language programs, as well as policies and support for these programs. Tennessee falls into the “limited or emerging” category, meaning they have some dual language programs but there is room for growth and improvement.

In comparison to other states, California, Texas, and New York are among the top-ranking states for dual language education programs. These states have a long history of bilingual education and have invested significant resources into developing and expanding these programs.

On the other hand, Tennessee has only recently started implementing dual language programs in some schools. According to data from the Tennessee Department of Education, there were only 14 Spanish-English dual language programs in the state during the 2018-2019 school year.

However, there are several successful dual language programs in Tennessee that serve as models for other schools looking to implement similar programs. For example, Valor Flagship Academy in Nashville was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for its success in implementing a Spanish-English dual language program.

Overall, while Tennessee may not be leading in terms of overall implementation and success rates of Dual Language Education Programs at the elementary school level compared to other states like California and Texas, there is potential for growth and expansion of these programs within the state.