Overview

The Woodland Joint Unified School District (WJUSD) has been chosen as one of three districts in California to receive a $3.5 million grant aimed at enhancing bilingual education in high schools. This initiative, funded by the Spencer Foundation, seeks to expand dual-language programs, allowing students to continue their bilingual education through their high school years.

The district plans to collaborate with various universities and other school districts to develop and implement these programs, ensuring that students can learn core subjects in both English and another language.

Key details

  • WJUSD is one of three districts selected for the bilingual education grant in California.
  • The grant totals $3.5 million and is provided by the Spencer Foundation.
  • The focus is on expanding dual-language programs in high schools.
  • WJUSD will partner with universities, including California State University, Sacramento, University of the Pacific, University of Oregon, and California State University, Monterey Bay.
  • Collaborating school districts include those in Anaheim, Monterey, and Woodland.
  • Researchers will analyze successful bilingual programs to aid in local program development.
  • Dual-language programs enable students to learn subjects like math, science, and history in English and another language.
  • The district currently offers dual language immersion programs at three elementary schools and two middle schools.
  • Dingle Elementary School has a growing dual-language program.
  • Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin emphasized the importance of bilingual education for student success.
  • The project aims to create pathways for students to continue bilingual education into high school.
  • The initiative is set to begin in fall 2026 and aims to enhance access to quality bilingual education.

Context

WJUSD has a longstanding commitment to bilingual education, with existing dual-language programs in place at various educational levels. This new grant represents an opportunity to build on that foundation and ensure that students can maintain their bilingual skills throughout their academic careers.

What happens next

The project is scheduled to commence in fall 2026, with plans to expand access to high-quality bilingual education for students in Woodland and beyond.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific implementation strategies, the exact number of students expected to benefit, and how success will be measured are not confirmed.