“Where data is present that indicates that students are not achieving higher levels of academic achievement – or even worse, are achieving at lower levels than students not in the specific program – modifications must be made,” he said.
Ragsdale did not provide data on student success in the program, but said there would be a presentation on the topic at an upcoming board meeting. He added that making sure elementary students can read at the grade level is the district’s highest priority.
The bilingual immersion program started in 2015 in Cobb. Neighboring districts such as Gwinnett County Public Schools and Marietta City Schools offer similar programs.
Ragsdale said five elementary schools will continue to accept new kindergartens: Dowell, Mableton, Nickajack, Russell and Smyrna. The remaining schools will not be accepting new students but will continue to offer the program to currently enrolled students.
Campbell Middle is the only middle school that currently offers the program. Floyd Middle will add it. Families currently enrolled in the program who thought it would be expanded to more middle schools will have the opportunity to participate in existing programs as space permits.
JoAnne Miranda told the board that the program has been a great experience for her two children.
“My children speak Spanish with pride,” she said.
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