The Palmdale School District is a leader in biliteracy education.
PSD Trustee candidate supports
Los Amigos School
The Los Amigos K-8 Dual Immersion School is an outstanding concept that has come to fruition which will give these children a distinctive developmental advantage that they can utilize throughout their lives. I had the privilege of attending the ribbon cutting ceremony on August 29, 2001, and I was overwhelmed by the talent and enthusiasm displayed by the children and their teachers during this event.
The children acquired their speaking skills largely because of their young age during which this process is more natural. Acquiring is a type of learning in which children speak spanish and english without going through the translating process. They know both languages. I've taken spanish in college and these children are miles ahead of me because I learned but did not acquire the language. Students also learn reading and comprehension in both languages.
After all these years someone has gotten it right and that's Palmdale School District. Los Amigos was modeled after the ideas of Steven Crashen of the University of Southern California, but it has taken a tremendous effort from the children, teachers, parents, administrators and board members to make it work. They all know they are onto something great and so does everyone else. That's why there is a long and growing waiting list to get into this school.
Scientific data show that children who acquire second languages also have increased brain development, increasing their IQ. This information alone indicates this trend will continue to spread to all schools from head start through college. Other languages will be introduced to expand this concept.
If you havn't been to Los Amigos I strongly suggest you take the time to stop by and experience this successful prototype for future schools in California and at minimum the southwest. If you get the opportunity to speak with Dr. Linda Wagner, Principal, Mr. Roger Gallizzi, Director of Biliteracy Programs, or any of the teachers of this school, you will find out that the children are benefitting tremendously. They will have an advantage entering the workforce because of the need for bi-literate employees. Our spanish speaking population is on the rise as is business with Mexico.
The old school of thinking which said learning english is their problem is out. Our cultures are now truly coming together and our children will leverage the power of diversity into one of their greatest strengths.
A dream has come true for our children as they learn and grow together to become Los Amigos.
Vote for me on November 6, for the Palmdale School District, Board of Trustees, so that all students can realize this dream.
We must put our children first!!!
Ken Meichtry
candidate
Palmdale School District
Board of Trustees
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