Beyond Elementary: Paving the Way for Secondary Dual Language Programs

Elementary dual language programs are flourishing across the country, celebrating the power of multilingualism and fostering cognitive flexibility, academic achievement, and cultural pride in young students. But as these foundational programs grow, a critical question emerges: what happens after fifth grade? Too often, the journey to full biliteracy ends prematurely, with bilingual students being placed into beginner-level world language classes that fail to recognize their years of linguistic development. This not only undervalues their existing bilingualism but also squanders immense academic and personal growth opportunities.

At Inquiry By Design , we believe that the journey to biliteracy should not stop at elementary school. Expanding dual language learning into middle and high school is not just an educational enhancement; it's an imperative for nurturing truly global citizens. These secondary programs offer a vital continuum, ensuring students continue to develop advanced reading, writing, and critical thinking skills in both languages, ultimately preparing them for college and a globally connected workforce.

Why Secondary Dual Language Matters for K-12 Education

The benefits of sustained dual language education extend far beyond linguistic proficiency. Secondary dual language programs, particularly those offering Spanish Language Arts (SLA), provide rigorous academic coursework that builds upon students' existing language skills, unlike traditional World Language classes designed for beginners. This advanced instruction, supported by high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and a robust literacy curriculum, is crucial for:

• Academic Rigor. Ensuring that bilingual students are challenged appropriately, preventing disengagement that can occur when they are placed in classes below their proficiency level.
• Achieving Biliteracy. Creating clear, credit-bearing pathways to the Seal of Biliteracy, an official recognition valued by colleges and employers, which can lead to college credit and enhanced career prospects.
• Affirming Cultural Identities. Honoring students' home languages and cultural backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging, and boosting engagement in school.
• Future Readiness. Equipping students with the cognitive advantages and cross-cultural competencies essential for success in a diverse, interconnected world.

Understanding the Models: Pathways to Biliteracy

One size does not fit all! When it comes to secondary dual language, successful programs are tailored to the unique needs of districts and their student populations. Here are common models:

• Continuation Model. Ideal for districts with strong K-5 immersion programs, this model ensures students continue their journey with Spanish Language Arts (SLA) and at least one core content course in Spanish each year, leading to AP/IB coursework and the Seal of Biliteracy.
• Heritage Language Learners Model. Designed for students who speak Spanish at home but may not have had formal instruction in reading or writing. These courses build academic literacy and affirm cultural identity through specialized high quality instructional material.
• Biliteracy Model. For districts without elementary immersion, this model creates a new pathway to biliteracy starting in middle school, accommodating students entering at various proficiency levels.

Regardless of the model, the goal remains consistent: sustained, rigorous instruction in Spanish that fosters academic growth, earns valuable credentials, and strengthens cultural and linguistic connections. Crucially, these courses should be credit-bearing, counting towards graduation requirements in core subjects, affirming the academic value of bilingualism.

Bringing It to Life: Real-World Examples

Districts across the country are successfully implementing innovative secondary dual language programs.

• Evergreen Public Schools, WA, exemplifies a robust Continuation Model. They offer a coherent 6-12 Spanish course sequence, including SLA and content courses, with students often earning the Seal of Biliteracy by 8th or 12th grade. Their success is rooted in ongoing investment in teacher development and bilingual staffing, recognizing that when students see their identities reflected, they stay engaged.
• Hillsboro School District, OR, showcases how to Expand Access and Sustain Biliteracy. Thanks to Oregon's Access to Linguistic Inclusion law, their SLA courses can fulfill Language Arts graduation requirements, allowing students to maintain and grow their bilingualism without falling behind. This flexibility led to over 100 students earning the Seal of Biliteracy in 2025, more than doubling the previous year's number.

These examples highlight that successful programs prioritize commitment, flexible pathways, and strong teacher support.

Launching or expanding a secondary dual language program is a significant undertaking, but it's entirely achievable with thoughtful planning and a shared vision. Here are three key steps to guide your district's journey:

1. Assess Readiness & Context. Begin by understanding your local landscape. Who are your students (heritage speakers, immersion graduates, newcomers)? What are their needs, and is there demand from families and the community?
2. Build a Shared Vision. Bring all stakeholders—students, families, and staff—together to define the "why." How will this program align with your district's equity and graduation goals? Co-create a vision that celebrates your community's linguistic assets.
3. Design Pathways & Entry Points. Map out how students will progress from 6th to 12th grade. Determine which credit-bearing courses you'll offer in Spanish (SLA, content classes, electives) and what placement tools will ensure the right fit for each learner. Remember to build flexible on-ramps for diverse student profiles.

Long-term success also hinges on securing a strong foundation in Staffing (hiring bilingual-certified teachers), Scheduling (protecting time for Spanish instruction and ensuring courses count towards graduation), Curriculum(investing in high-quality instructional materials and a robust literacy curriculum in Spanish), and Funding (planning for multi-year sustainability).

Ready to Unlock Your Students' Multilingual Potential?

Expanding dual language programs into secondary grades is a powerful step towards a more inclusive and academically enriching future for all students. Inquiry By Design is committed to supporting K-12 education leaders in this vital work.

Is your district ready to take the next step in expanding dual language opportunities? Download our full 'Beyond Elementary: A Guide to Expanding Dual Language Programs' for a comprehensive roadmap and detailed case studies.

Want to discuss how Inquiry By Design can help your district build a tailored secondary dual language pathway? Contact us for a consultation.