Building a strong cohort of students and families is essential to the success of any dual language (DL) program. But how do you effectively recruit families and ensure your program reaches all members of the community? Providing clear and accessible information at the right time is key to fostering interest and engagement.
Here are practical steps schools and districts can take to create a thriving DL program that welcomes families from all backgrounds.
Choose a Program Model That Fits Your Community
Begin by examining the demographics of your school or district. Your DL program should reflect the needs of your student population.
- For schools with a larger population of students learning English as an additional language, a 50/50 program model can be an excellent choice. This model provides equal exposure to English and the partner language, encouraging peer-to-peer learning opportunities.
- If most of your students are native English speakers, a 90/10 model may be more effective. In this structure, students spend more time immersed in the partner language, building stronger skills in their new language.
For more details about program models, check out Participate Learning’s Dual Language resources.
Engage the Community With Clear Communication
Once you’ve selected a program model, it’s time to share information with your community. Effective outreach ensures that more families are aware of the opportunities your program provides.
- Distribute Flyers: Place flyers at local daycares, pre-K centers, community centers, and other public spaces. Be sure materials are available in multiple languages so all families can access the information.
- Leverage Social Media: Use social media platforms to share program highlights, testimonials, and upcoming events. Videos that demonstrate the benefits of dual language immersion can be especially compelling.
- Update Websites: Ensure your school or district websites include comprehensive program details in both English and the partner language. This helps parents learn about the program even before attending an event.
Make Information Accessible for All Families
Once your program is advertised, it’s important to host events where families can learn more. Parent information nights, school fairs, or even drive-through events can be effective ways to connect with families.
Event Tips:
- Provide both in-person and virtual attendance options to increase accessibility.
- Ensure public transportation is running during and after event hours to support families who rely on it.
- Include bilingual staff or translators at events to make information available to all attendees.
At information nights, consider covering the following topics:
- An overview of the program model and its benefits, such as improved cognitive development, bilingual skills, and academic achievement.
- A comparison of dual language immersion and traditional language learning.
- Introductions to the teachers who will be leading the program.
- Examples of a typical daily schedule in the program.
- Testimonials from parents about their experiences with the program.
- Assistance with kindergarten registration, if applicable.
For examples of recruitment materials, explore Participate Learning’s resources designed for DL programs.
Create a Welcoming Front Office
Your front office often serves as the first point of contact for families, so it’s important to make a positive impression.
- Ensure front office staff are well-versed in the basics of your DL program and prepared to answer parents’ questions.
- If possible, have staff available who can communicate with families in their native language.
Building a Thriving Program
By setting clear expectations, providing accessible information, and fostering a welcoming environment, you can establish a vibrant DL program that reflects the composition and needs of your community. These steps ensure a strong foundation for success in the first year and beyond.
Learn more about the comprehensive support Participate Learning’s Dual Language Mastery Program offers to schools and districts.
