Dual Language Program
Mark Twain Elementary
Dual Language Program
Programa de Doble Idioma
Building bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural learners through meaningful academic experiences in two languages.
Two Languages. One Learning Community.
Mark Twain's Dual Language Program, also known as the Two-Way Bilingual Immersion Program (TWBIP), brings students from two language backgrounds together to learn academic content with comprehensive support in both languages.
Bilingual
Bilingüe
Students develop the ability to communicate effectively in two languages.
Biliterate
Bialfabetizado
Students develop strong reading and writing skills across both languages.
Bicultural
Bicultural
Students develop appreciation and understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
What Makes Dual Language Successful?
Successful dual language programs are built on long-term commitment, rigorous academics, meaningful language development, and strong partnerships between school and home.
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Long-term commitment from students, families, and staff.
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Consistent and optimal language input in both program languages.
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Rigorous academic content across subject areas.
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Language arts integrated throughout the curriculum.
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Clear separation of languages during instruction.
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An additive bilingual environment that values both languages.
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Balanced representation of both language groups.
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Meaningful exposure to the less-dominant language.
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Frequent opportunities for student speech, interaction, and collaboration.
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Strong administrative leadership and support.
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Instruction that empowers students culturally and linguistically.
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Highly qualified, trained, and culturally responsive teachers.
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Active collaboration and communication between home and school.
2026–2027 Important Dates
Families interested in the Dual Language Program should review the following important dates for the 2026–2027 application process.
October 19, 2026
Twain Neighborhood (Zoned) Application Opens
December 8, 2026
School Choice Applications Open
January 14, 2027
Dual Language Informational Meeting at 5:30 PM
in the Mark Twain cafeteria
February 12, 2027
Twain Neighborhood Application Deadline
February 12, 2027
School Choice Application Deadline
March 4, 2027
Twain Neighborhood Notification
March 17, 2027
School Choice Lottery Notifications
Dual Language Informational Meeting
January 14, 2027
5:30 PM
Mark Twain Elementary Cafeteria
Families interested in learning more about the Dual Language Program are encouraged to attend.
Program Overview
Learn more about Mark Twain's Dual Language Program in English or Spanish.
English
The Dual Language Program, also known as the Two-Way Bilingual Immersion Program (TWBIP), provides an educational environment where students from two language backgrounds learn academic content together. Instruction is supported in both languages to create an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. The goal is for students to become bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural.
Español
El Programa de Doble Idioma, también conocido como Programa de Inmersión Bilingüe Bidireccional (TWBIP), ofrece un entorno educativo donde estudiantes de dos orígenes lingüísticos aprenden contenido académico juntos. La instrucción se ofrece con apoyo en ambos idiomas para crear un ambiente de aprendizaje inclusivo y colaborativo. El objetivo es que los estudiantes se conviertan en bilingües, bialfabetizados y biculturales.
Learning Across Languages & Cultures
Dual language education gives students opportunities to strengthen academic knowledge while developing communication skills, cultural awareness, and an appreciation for multiple perspectives. These experiences help prepare students to learn, communicate, and collaborate in an increasingly interconnected world.
Two Languages • Two Cultures • One Community
Dos Idiomas • Dos Culturas • Una Comunidad