Imagine a classroom where Arkansas students don’t just study a second language but use it in real-world settings every day. Research shows that students in dual-immersion programs often exceed state standards. They develop higher levels of literacy, retention, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for a global workforce.
To bring these benefits to Arkansas, the Little Rock School District (LRSD) partnered with Clinton School Student Ashley Delgado to design a sustainable pathway for bilingual education.
Her Capstone work was a driving force behind the district’s comprehensive five-year program and evaluation plan, teacher and student recruitment strategies, facilitation of an advisory group, and teacher certification plan.
Because of this strategic preparation, LRSD plans to break ground as the first public school district in Arkansas to pursue a state-approved, dual-immersion program.
Opening this August at Chicot and Watson Elementary Schools in Southwest Little Rock, the pilot program will allow for 60 students to learn in both English and Spanish, equipping them with skills that support academic success and long-term career readiness.
The Clinton School Impact Minute is a recurring segment with Little Rock Public Radio, highlighting the Clinton School’s field service impact.
Since 2004, Clinton School students have completed nearly 700 field service projects with more than 300 organizations in Arkansas alone, creating immediate and long-term impact for businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies across the state.