Language Programs

What Is Structured English Immersion (SEI)?

Structured English Immersion (SEI) programs provide instruction primarily in English to support English Learners in developing English proficiency while learning grade‑level academic content. SEI classrooms are designed for students who are acquiring English and include targeted instructional strategies that make content accessible and support language development.

SEI is designed to promote academic achievement, English language development, and student success and is available for students in Kindergarten (K) through 12th grade.

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SEI Instructional Model

Students receive daily Designated and Integrated English Language Development (ELD) alongside standards‑aligned instruction in all subject areas. Teachers use research‑based strategies to support listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English while ensuring access to grade‑level curriculum.

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Benefits of Structured English Immersion

Language: Accelerates English language development and academic vocabulary
Academic: Supports access to grade‑level standards and content learning
Instructional: Provides targeted supports to build comprehension, confidence, and academic success

What Is Dual Language Immersion (DLI)?

Our Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program provides instruction in two languages, English and Spanish, to help students become bilingual and biliterate. The program serves both native English speakers and native Spanish speakers, supporting academic learning while developing strong language skills in both languages.

DLI is designed to promote high academic achievement, biliteracy, and cross-cultural understanding and is currently available for students in Kindergarten (K) through 9th grade. 

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90/10 Dual Immersion Model

In Kindergarten, students receive approximately 90% of instruction in the target language (Spanish) and 10% in English. As students progress through the grades, English instruction gradually increases until instruction is balanced at 50% in the target language and 50% in English.

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Benefits of Dual Language Immersion

• Cognitive: Strengthens problem-solving, memory, and multitasking skills

• Academic: Supports higher achievement and strong reading comprehension

• Cultural: Builds appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives

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ENGLISH BROCHURE

SPANISH BROCHURE

Dual Language Immersion Enrollment & Eligibility Process

To ensure a strong and balanced K–12 Dual Language Immersion (DLI) pathway, Rialto Unified School District follows a structured enrollment process beginning in Kindergarten. Each DLI classroom is intentionally balanced with students who are proficient in Spanish and students who are developing Spanish language skills to support high‑quality bilingual learning.

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Kindergarten Enrollment & Eligibility

During Kindergarten enrollment, the district assigns students to create a balanced classroom, with approximately ½ to ⅔ Spanish‑proficient students and ⅓ to ½ students who are not yet proficient in Spanish.

Priority for Admission

Students are considered for DLI placement based on the following priority levels:

• Priority 1: Students who live within the attendance area of a school offering DLI

• Priority 1: Siblings of students currently enrolled in the DLI program

• Priority 2: RUSD students who live outside the DLI attendance area (intra‑district transfer)

• Priority 3: Students who live outside RUSD boundaries (inter‑district transfer)

Students complete a brief language assessment and are admitted based on priority level and space availability. If demand exceeds available space at any priority level, a lottery will be held.

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Enrollment Timeline

• November–January: Recruitment and interest meetings

• November–February: Interviews and placement for Priority 1 students

• March–May: Interviews and placement for Priority 2, then Priority 3 students

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Process for Kindergarten Families

Families interested in enrolling a Kindergarten student in DLI must:

1. Attend a Dual Language Immersion Interest Meeting
   Meetings are announced through school communications, district and school websites, phone calls, and emails.

2. Submit an Interest Form
   After the meeting, families complete an interest form to schedule an interview.

3. Student Language Assessment & Interview
   Students complete a brief language assessment, families receive additional program information, and questions are addressed.

4. Placement or Waitlist Notification
   Students are admitted or placed on a waitlist based on the admissions timeline and space availability.

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Eligibility for Grades 1–5

Students in grades 1–5 may be considered for DLI placement if:

• Space is available at the student’s grade level, and

• The student is new to RUSD and has participated in a DLI program in another district, or

• The student is new to RUSD and demonstrates at least approaching grade‑level Spanish proficiency.

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Eligibility for Middle & High School

Students in middle and high school may apply for the DLI pathway if space is available and the student:

• Is new to RUSD and previously participated in a DLI program, or

• Is new to RUSD and demonstrates at least approaching grade‑level Spanish proficiency.

Selecting a language program is an important decision that supports your child’s academic growth, language development, and future opportunities. Rialto Unified School District encourages families to consider their child’s learning style, interests, and long‑term goals when exploring language program options.

Consider Your Child’s Learning Style

Think about how your child learns best. Some students thrive in structured environments, while others benefit from hands‑on and interactive learning. Dual Language Immersion is an immersive program that works well for students who are open to learning in two languages.

Reflect on Interests and Motivation

Children who enjoy language, stories, music, and interacting with others from different cultures often thrive in language programs. Curiosity and a willingness to try new experiences are key components of success.

Think About Long‑Term Goals

Language programs support more than academic achievement. They help students develop bilingualism, biliteracy, and cultural understanding—skills that support college readiness, career opportunities, and global engagement.

Explore Program Options

• Structured English Immersion (SEI): Supports English Learners in developing English proficiency while accessing grade‑level content.

• Dual Language Immersion (DLI): Provides instruction in English and Spanish to develop bilingualism, biliteracy, and cross‑cultural competence.

Families considering Dual Language Immersion may find the following helpful in preparing their child for success:

• Encourage a positive attitude toward learning two languages

• Read regularly with your child in English and/or Spanish

• Support perseverance and patience as language skills develop over time

• Foster curiosity about different cultures and ways of communicating

• Commit to long‑term participation, as students benefit most when they remain in the program for multiple years

Choosing the right program is a partnership between families and schools. Rialto Unified School District is committed to supporting families as they make informed decisions that best meet their child’s needs.

How successful are Dual Language Immersion programs?

Dual Language Immersion programs are supported by decades of research showing long‑term benefits for both English Learners and English‑dominant students. Students develop strong academic skills, bilingualism, biliteracy, cognitive flexibility, and social‑cultural competence that extend into college and careers.

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Will learning two languages confuse my child or slow academic progress?

No. Research consistently shows that learning in two languages supports academic growth. Students benefit most when they remain in the program long‑term, as moving in and out of the program can interrupt language development.

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Are programs like this offered in other school districts?

Yes. Dual Language Immersion programs are growing across California and the nation and are successfully implemented in many neighboring school districts.

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Do children become frustrated learning in another language?

Some students may experience brief frustration during the early months, which is a normal part of learning a new language. Families are encouraged to provide reassurance and focus on positive experiences and progress.

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My child already speaks Spanish. Why enroll in DLI?

Many students begin to lose their home language once they enter English‑dominant school settings. Dual Language Immersion helps students maintain and strengthen their first language while developing English and both languages academically. We believe no child should have to lose a language to gain one.

When can I begin the recruitment process?

Recruitment opens each fall for students entering Kindergarten the following school year. Dates are posted on the district DLI webpage.

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Is DLI only for Kindergarten students?

Kindergarten is the recommended entry point. Limited spaces may be available in 1st grade, and in later grades for Spanish‑dominant, bilingual students, or students transferring from another DLI program.

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How long does the Dual Language Immersion program last?

Dual Language Immersion is a K–12 pathway. Students benefit most when they remain in the program through elementary school and continue through middle and high school.

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Does my child need to speak Spanish to enroll?

No. The program intentionally enrolls both English‑speaking and Spanish‑speaking students. English‑speaking students will develop Spanish proficiency through the program.

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What if my home school does not offer DLI?

Families may apply to attend a school that offers the DLI program, following district enrollment and placement procedures.

Why does the teacher only speak Spanish during instruction?

Consistent use of Spanish helps students develop strong language skills and motivation to communicate in the target language. This approach supports English‑dominant students in acquiring Spanish and helps Spanish‑dominant students maintain their home language while learning English.

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Will my child learn English in the program?

Yes. Students receive daily instruction in both English and Spanish, developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in both languages. Learning in one language supports learning in the other.

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Will my child learn the same curriculum as other students?

Yes. Students in Dual Language Immersion learn the same grade‑level standards and curriculum as all Rialto USD students. The difference is the language of instruction—not the expectations.

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What subjects are taught in Spanish in middle school?

At the middle school level, instruction in Spanish includes mathematics, science, and history, as part of the Dual Language pathway.

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What subjects are taught in Spanish in high school?

High school Dual Language includes Spanish and Science. Coursework is still currently in development as the pathway continues to expand.

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Will my child remain in DLI after reclassification?

Yes. Students may continue in the DLI program after reclassification to continue developing bilingualism and biliteracy.

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What happens if my child struggles in the program?

Students receive ongoing academic and language support. Teachers, school staff, and families work together to monitor progress and provide interventions when needed to ensure student success.

Will I be able to help my child with homework?

Yes. Homework instructions are provided in English and Spanish, and assignments reflect concepts taught in class. Families may use dictionaries, translation tools, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) applications for translation when needed.

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Do I need to read to my child in Spanish?

No. Families are encouraged to read with their child in the language used at home. As students develop literacy skills, they may read aloud in either language.

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Do parents need to speak Spanish to support their child?

No. Parents do not need to be bilingual. What matters most is active family involvement, communication with teachers, and encouragement at home.

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Can parents volunteer in the classroom?

Yes. Families are encouraged to volunteer and participate in school activities whenever possible to support student learning.

The Promise of Two‑Language Education (ASCD)

An article summarizing research on two‑language programs showing academic, cognitive, and social benefits, and how bilingual instruction supports literacy and English development. 
🔗 ASCD article: The Promise of Two‑Language Education

 

Benefits of Multilingualism (OELA Infographic)

A research‑based infographic from the Office of English Language Aquisition summarizing evidence that bilingualism supports cognitive development, academic achievement, social‑emotional growth, and long‑term economic opportunities. The research reinforces that programs such as Dual Language Immersion help students succeed academically while developing bilingualism and biliteracy.
🔗 OELA Resource: Benefits of Multilingualism Infographic 

 

How a Second Language Can Boost the Brain

An in‑depth, research‑based article explaining how bilingualism strengthens executive function, attention, memory, and brain health across the lifespan. Drawing on neuroscience and decades of studies, the article shows that using two languages can enhance cognitive flexibility in children and may help delay age‑related cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease.
🔗 Knowable Magazine Article: How a Second Language Can Boost the Brain 

 

Raising Kids Bilingual Can Make Them More Attentive and Efficient as Adults

A health and wellness article summarizing research showing that children who grow up bilingual develop stronger attention control, cognitive flexibility, and executive functioning that can last into adulthood. The article highlights how early bilingual experiences strengthen the brain’s ability to focus, problem‑solve, and adapt efficiently over time.
🔗 CNBC Health & Wellness Article: Raising kids bilingual can make them more attentive and efficient as adults

• The Benefits of a Bilingual Brain - Mia Nacamull

• Los beneficios de un cerebro bilingüe - Mia Nacamulli

• Bilingual Education & Family Voices | Why Dual Language Matters for Students and Communities

• The Benefits of Being Bilingual | Bella Lawson & Jose Sabedra | TEDxKids@ElCajon

• Archive SEAL A Dual Language Preschool Classroom

• Bilingual Program: Academic Content in Two Languages