The Standard Times - April 3, 2013
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130403/OPINION/304030313/
Shana Silva, New Bedford
Relevant Quotes: (Please follow the link above to read the complete article.)
Other cities and states have embraced the dual immersion program, and it is imperative that New Bedford does the same. Education is transforming, and it is crucial that New Bedford keeps up with the times. We must not be left behind.
I would like to mention the fact that I have conducted a substantial amount of ethnographic qualitative research at a dual immersion school in Roxbury. During my time in Roxbury, I witnessed firsthand the extremely positive and dynamic effects that the program can have on its students and its community. The community was extremely tight knit and involved in the program, and the students, both the native English-speaking students and the native Spanish-speaking students, were all bilingual by the time they were in the fifth grade.
Students gained a sense of respect for one another's cultures and beliefs. They learned to be sensitive to cultural differences. The native English-speaking children understood and respected the Latino culture, and the native Spanish-speaking students reciprocated that level of appreciation and respect for American culture.
This level of tolerance, understanding and cooperation among different cultures would be an exemplary model in which the entire community could learn from.
Esperanza school will not only make a positive difference in the lives of our students, but it will also have a tremendous impact in our community. Esperanza school will provide the English and Spanish speaking students of New Bedford with the advantage they deserve.
