Gilbert Elementary’s dual‑language Spanish immersion program is drawing praise from teachers, families and students who say it is strengthening academic skills, building confidence and broadening cultural understanding.
The program, launched in 1994, weaves Spanish and English instruction throughout the school day rather than teaching Spanish as a standalone subject. Students receive half their instruction in each language, supported by structured strategies and visuals designed to help learners with varying levels of Spanish experience.
Teachers report steady growth in students’ academic performance and communication skills.
“Students are learning to communicate and perform academically in two languages,” said Ana Parra, a dual‑language teacher at the school. “Language becomes a tool for understanding, not a barrier. Over time, we see students grow more confident in how they express ideas and approach new challenges.”
State data reflects the school’s overall performance. The Arizona Department of Education’s A–F Letter Grade Accountability system awarded Gilbert Elementary an A rating with a score of 92.25 out of 100.
The school earned all 50 available points in Growth Performance, which measures academic progress in math and English Language Arts compared with peers statewide.
It also received full points in English Learner Growth and Proficiency and in Acceleration Readiness.
Families say the program’s impact extends beyond academics.
“I’ve seen my kids develop stronger problem‑solving skills and flexibility in thinking,” parent Aimee Hernandez said. “Switching between languages has helped my children with reading comprehension, confidence and empathy.”
Parent Susana Gonzalez said the program also strengthens cultural awareness.
“Children in the program aren’t just learning vocabulary, they’re learning to understand different traditions and ways of thinking,” she said. “That curiosity and respect show up in how they interact with classmates and in how they carry themselves.”
Former Gilbert Elementary student Finley Pearson, now a Gilbert High School freshman, said the program shaped her academic confidence and long‑term goals.
“My experience in dual language was both very challenging and rewarding,” Pearson said. “Learning in an environment where many of the kids were native speakers at home helped me learn the language faster. I was also immersed in the culture and traditions, including experiences like folklórico dance and Día de los Muertos.”
Pearson said the program prepared her for accelerated coursework.
“Being proficient in another language will open doors in my education and future profession,” she said.
Many students continue their dual‑language studies at Gilbert Accelerated Middle School, which is pursuing authorization for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. Others attend Mesquite Junior High School, which offers Spanish courses in seventh and eighth grade.
Gilbert Elementary will showcase the program at its Kindergarten Round-Up on Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m. More information is available at GilbertSchools.net/Academics/Dual-Language.
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