Bilingual Education Programs

At Dover Public Schools, we make sure that every eligible Multilingual Learner (ML) in grades K-12 has access to at least one period of ESL instruction each day. This ensures that students at all levels of language proficiency get the support they need to improve their English skills while keeping up with their academic progress. Our goal is to help each student succeed both academically and in their language development.

At Dover Public Schools, we offer High Intensity ESL for eligible Multilingual Learners (MLs) in grades 9-12. Students in this program receive two periods of ESL instruction each day, providing them with additional language support to accelerate their English language development. This intensive instruction ensures that students have the time and resources needed to build their English skills while keeping up with their academic requirements. Our goal is to provide these students with the support they need to succeed both in their studies and in their language journey.

At Dover Public Schools, our Full-Time Bilingual program supports eligible Multilingual Learners (MLs) whose first language is Spanish by providing instruction in both Spanish and English. This approach helps students develop their English proficiency while ensuring academic success. Currently available in grades 4-6, the program will continue in grades 5-6 starting in the 2025-2026 school year. By receiving content instruction in their native language while gradually increasing exposure to English, students can build both language and academic skills with confidence.

At Dover Public Schools, eligible Multilingual Learners (MLs) in grades 7-8 receive additional support through our Part-Time Bilingual program. In this program, students receive an extended period of ESL instruction each day, along with Math instruction from a certified Bilingual Math teacher. Additionally, they benefit from support in other content areas with teachers who have been trained in Sheltered English Instruction (SEI). This comprehensive approach ensures that students can fully understand and engage with academic content while strengthening their English proficiency and building a strong foundation in all subject areas.

Dover Public Schools is dedicated to supporting bilingualism, biliteracy, and cultural understanding through our Dual Language Program. We currently implement a 50/50 dual language model in grades K-3, where students split their instructional time evenly between Spanish and English. This approach helps them build strong academic skills in both languages while maintaining and developing their native language abilities.

Our Dual Language Program primarily serves Multilingual Learners (MLs), with over 92% of students in the program eligible for full-time bilingual education. This model creates an inclusive learning environment that promotes language development and academic success. As we continue expanding, our program will soon include grades K-4, allowing more students to benefit from bilingual instruction.

Studies consistently show that dual language education has lasting benefits. Research indicates that students in dual language programs often perform better than their peers in monolingual settings on standardized tests. They also demonstrate greater cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and an enhanced ability to think critically about language. Bilingualism has also been linked to improved executive functioning, stronger memory, and long-term career advantages in an increasingly interconnected world.

Beyond academics, dual language education fosters cultural appreciation and cross-cultural communication, helping students develop a global perspective. By investing in bilingual education, Dover Public Schools ensures that students gain the language proficiency and skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.