Opportunities like Socorro Independent School District’s dual language program is helping first-graders, such as Isabelle Chilson, in seizing their full potential.
Isabelle is thriving in the Dual Language Academy at Bill Sybert School, where she is learning to read, write, and speak fluently in both English and Spanish.
Since the start of the school year, her reading and writing in both languages have improved, making her one of the top-performing students in her class.
“For my Spanish test, I got 100,” said Isabelle, who also excels in math, science and social studies. “I’m happy because my mom and dad were happy.”
In recognition of her outstanding accomplishments, Isabelle was selected to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the Socorro ISD’s Board of Trustees regular meeting in March.
SISD's Dual Language Academy provides rigorous instruction and multicultural experiences to prepare elementary students like Isabelle to become bilingual and bi-literate in both English and Spanish. In addition to Bill Sybert School, the program is offered at Dr. Sue A. Shook, Hueco and Myrtle Cooper elementary schools.
Isabelle’s mom, Marisela Chilson, who is bilingual in English and Spanish, said the program was an excellent opportunity for her daughter to learn two languages. She said the program has not only improved Isabelle’s language skills, but it has also brought them closer because they spend time doing homework and reading together.
“I think it's been great,” Marisela Chilson said. She plans to enroll Isabelle’s younger brother in the dual language program when he starts kindergarten in the fall. “I can read and write Spanish, and I think it helps kind of build a little more of a relationship between her and I to learn the language and read and write together.”
By helping Isabelle become proficient in English and Spanish, the dual language program is also opening more opportunities for her future success.
Children in the program develop high levels of proficiency and literacy in both languages, demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, and gain a deep appreciation and understanding of diverse cultures.
“Being biliterate is a prestigious skill to possess, especially living in the border city,” said Giselle Marin, Isabelle’s English language arts teacher. “This opens many doors for you, like being marketable in the real world. I am certain of Isabelle’s determination, and I know she will succeed in any career path she chooses for her future.”
Isabelle and her classmates in the academy receive 50% of their instruction in English and 50% in Spanish. In the morning, Isabelle studies reading, writing, social studies, and science in English with her teacher, Ms. Marin. In the afternoon, she learns reading, writing, and math in Spanish from her teacher, Karla Carrillo.
In class, Isabelle is partnered with a bilingual student to practice language skills. They help each other with assignments and any language difficulties.
“It was kind of hard to learn Spanish,” Isabelle said. “Like when I had to do word search for Spanish, it was hard, but my friend helped me.”
Karla Carrillo said she has been impressed with Isabelle’s eagerness to learn a new language.
“Her enthusiasm is contagious, and she helps her fellow classmates as much as possible,” Carillo said. “Evey single day she makes her best personal effort in learning Spanish and applying all the concepts she’s learned.”
A fun aspect of the academy is that Isabelle and her classmates get to explore different cultures and celebrate their traditions and customs. Last year, she and her classmates enjoyed dressing up for United Nations Day and Mexican Independence Day.
Recently, Isabelle and her mom joined the school’s Latino Literacy Club, where they enjoy reading bilingual children’s books, like “Teo in Palo Verde.” Children take turns reading out loud and practicing their vocabulary.
Marisela Chilson said the club has helped Isabelle step out of her comfort zone and be more open to new things.
“She's still learning the Spanish part, but she's definitely trying,” Marisela Chilson said. “I think it's helping her be more comfortable because there are other students there. We’re very proud of her and how far she’s come and how much she’s opened out of her shell.”