Many students transitioning from elementary immersion programs face challenges bridging the gap between dual language classrooms and more advanced high school language courses. Designing a successful middle school program is critical to creating continuity across grade levels and meeting the needs of a wide range of learners, from native Spanish speakers to English-dominant students.
Over the past 30+ years, Participate Learning has partnered with districts and schools to design and implement effective dual language programs like Conexiones. Below, we share some key lessons learned along the way.
Plan for Long-Term Success Early
Districts with dual language programs—or those considering starting one—should engage in early planning to create a clear pathway for student success. Elementary-only programs help students develop foundational biliteracy and language proficiency, but long-term planning allows students to fully benefit from the educational and career advantages of advanced language studies.
Early collaboration with middle and high school language departments is essential to understanding the needs of students transitioning from elementary dual language programs. Heritage learners often bring unique perspectives and skills that should be considered in program design and implementation.
Participate Learning’s dual language team typically spends one to two years in the discovery, planning, and implementation phases of these programs. This process ensures that logistical elements are in place to support future opportunities, such as advanced placement, honors, or International Baccalaureate courses, as well as Credit by Demonstrated Mastery (CDM) options.
Engage and Support Heritage Learners
Middle school dual language programs offer invaluable opportunities to celebrate and strengthen the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of heritage learners. These programs help students practice their home language in meaningful contexts while exploring traditions and cultures from Spanish-speaking communities worldwide.
Fredy Parra, a Conexiones teacher in Harnett County, empowers his students—both English learners and heritage Spanish speakers—by encouraging collaboration. His class created a bilingual newspaper, with students writing and editing content in both Spanish and English. Fredy notes, “They feel like their language skills matter because they are working on content and helping their partners use the language effectively.”
This approach fosters pride in heritage learners while providing authentic opportunities for language practice. Programs that allow students to engage with cultural identity in meaningful ways strengthen their sense of belonging and deepen their learning experiences.
Focus on Critical Thinking Skills
Middle school programs must address logistical challenges like scheduling while focusing on helping students become critical thinkers. Developing these skills prepares students to analyze information, form arguments, collaborate, and communicate effectively—all while mastering advanced language skills.
The Conexiones curriculum is built around overarching themes tied to meaningful global challenges. This approach supports robust linguistic growth while exposing students to broader content areas and encouraging the development of global competencies.
Adriana Rueda, a Conexiones teacher at The International School at Gregory, emphasizes the program’s benefits: “It offers students the opportunity to increase their language skills while working on cross-curricular projects; it’s learning by doing.” Students research, analyze, and present their findings using technology tools, allowing them to grow as both language learners and critical thinkers.
Adriana also highlights how revisiting themes across multiple years builds deeper understanding: “When you revisit a topic each year, students’ ability to critically analyze and pull information grows in powerful ways.”
Main Takeaways
To ensure success, dual language programs must provide students with opportunities to continue developing their language skills beyond elementary school. Heritage learners benefit from cultural and linguistic exploration, while English-dominant students gain valuable insights and skills through collaborative learning in classrooms.
Participate Learning’s Conexiones program has demonstrated success, with students consistently showing progress in reading, writing, and presentational language skills. By integrating research, collaboration, and real-world applications, dual language programs help students thrive academically and build meaningful connections.
As you develop your own middle school dual language program, consider how these elements can take shape in your schools. Engage with key stakeholders to ensure your program is designed for long-term success. Effective dual language programs not only help students excel academically but also foster collaboration and understanding that positively impact both local and global communities.
To learn how Participate Learning can support your school in implementing a successful dual language program, explore our Dual Language Mastery Program.
