Dual Language Immersion at Terwilliger Elementary

Terwilliger Elementary School is the first school in Alachua County Public Schools to offer Dual Language Immersion (DLI). Some of the benefits of learning in a DLI model include increased cognitive dexterity and problem-solving skills, embracing cultural awareness and diversity, and enhanced communication skills in both languages.

A DLI model of instruction begins in kindergarten the first year and expands each year until fully implemented in Grades K-5. Additionally, a new group of kindergarten students would begin each year. The program encourages participation by English and target language speaking students. The model of instruction is 50/50 English and Spanish with the goal of developing bilingual, bi-literate, and bi-cultural students.

Admission into DLI requires a long-term K-5 commitment to fulfill our dedication to each student becoming bilingual, bi-literate, and bi-cultural. Programming will be developed in the secondary schools to support students who complete the K-5 program with the aspiration to earn the prestigious Florida Seal of Bi-literacy in middle school or high school.