[spintreebob]

Just so you know what is happening. On another page of the same issue is the article dual language article about Chicago schools

http://www.reflejos.com/onlinepdf/20080127/20080127_Ref_p10.pdf

[ECM]

Let me make sure I understand this:

On the one hand, they're only allowing the brighter students into the program in the first place:

Classes, capped at 25 students, often have waiting lists. This year’s kindergarten class tested 110 students for the program, taking only 50, said Judy Rivera, who runs Channing’s program.

Then they try to state that the students are bright because of the dual-language:

“We have statistics here at Channing that the dual language students are consistently scoring above their peers...”

Now I may not be the brightest bulb, but doesn't it stand to reason that if the best and the brightest are being admitted to the program in the first place that, regardless of the additional language, they'd still be out-scoring their peers afterward?

In other words, one has nothing to do with the other.

[Myrddin]

Dual language program is a code word for instruction in Spanish for Spanish speakers and instruction in English for English speakers. There is no attempt to actually help the Spanish speakers learn English so they can compete in the English speaking world of the USA. Now, the bloom is off the rose. There is no way to hide the dishonest behavior of not teaching the Spanish speakers English.

[AntiKev]

I think a second language is a definite asset (3 is even better!). Two of my cousins attended French-immersion to the end of high school. Now, the illegal issue is totally separate. If there is demand for dual language schools and language education then I see no reason it shouldn’t be provided.

Don’t get me wrong: whether or not the government should be providing it is a completely different issue.

[ThanhPhero]

They’re just gonna have to finally learn English.

[CottonBall]

“After seven years of dual language study, there are no programs in place for them when they head to middle school.”

After 7 years, they're still too stupid to understand English?