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The Powerful Benefits of Dual Language

Bilingual and Biliterate for Life

Students become fluent in both English and Spanish, giving them the ability to speak, read, write, and think in two languages, a skill that lasts a lifetime. Choosing a Dual Language program opens the door to a world of opportunities for your child. Students in our program don’t just learn a second language, they grow up with the tools they need to succeed in school, in the world and in life.

Stronger Academic Skills

Research shows that Dual Language students often meet or exceed grade-level expectations in reading, math, and other subjects — in both languages.

  • In 2024, 70% of Dual Language students in grades K–2 met or exceeded expected reading growth in both English and Spanish.
     
  • Dual Language programs are proven to improve academic performance and narrow opportunity gaps between multilingual learners and their peers.
     
  • Students in Dual Language programs consistently demonstrate higher academic achievement compared to those in English-only programs.
     
  • In HSD, Latino/a/x Dual Language students have a 17% higher graduation rate than their Latino/a/x peers not enrolled in Dual Language programs.

Smarter Thinking and Cognitive Growth

Learning in two languages strengthens the brain and promotes higher levels of abstract thought and reasoning.

  • Enhanced executive function skills, such as attentional control, task switching, and intellectual flexibility.
     
  • Better focus, memory, and problem-solving skills.
     
  • Bilingualism may even delay age-related cognitive decline and reduce the risk of illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Confident Communicators

Dual Language students learn to express themselves clearly and respectfully in two languages with people from diverse backgrounds.

Cultural Pride and Global Citizenship

Dual Language education enhances students’ understanding of other cultures and fosters empathy, inclusivity, and global awareness.

  • Students develop stronger connections to their heritage cultures while learning to appreciate others.
     
  • Families report that their children feel proud of who they are and more connected to both their home language and school community.
     
  • DL schools regularly host bilingual family nights, literacy events, and multicultural celebrations that bring families and communities together.
     
  • These experiences promote reduced discrimination, improved self-esteem, and stronger cross-group relationships.

College and Career Advantages

Being bilingual opens doors to a world of opportunities.

  • In 2024, 62% of DL seniors earned the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy, standing out for college, scholarships, and future careers.
     
  • Dual Language graduates have higher high school graduation rates than the state average.
     
  • Bilingualism raises occupational status and earning potential and is highly valued in both public and private sectors.
     
  • Language skills are in high demand for federal and international career opportunities.

Dual Language is a Gift

Bilingualism is more than a skill — it’s a lifelong advantage. Dual Language students grow into confident, globally minded citizens, ready to lead, connect, and thrive in a multilingual world.

Adapted from the Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) and Hillsboro School District data.

Is DLP Right for Your Family?

The Dual Language program truly incorporates the entire family. Students learn language during the day, while parents are encouraged to learn the language by night. Children who have a love of learning as well as  support and encouragement from home will find success in the dual language program.

The program is a good fit for families that: 

  • Value other cultures--the people, art, history, etc. 
  • Support learning a second language and encourage practicing the language. 
  • Are willing to participate in school projects and activities. 
  • Are willing to commit to a K-12 program participation. 

There are many reasons families choose to participate in the dual language program: connection to native language and culture, career opportunities, multicultural appreciation, and/or the ease of becoming bilingual at an early age. All families who enroll in this program show a commitment to support their child at school and at home.

What the Research Says

Additional Resources for Families

Colorín Colorado Website - this website has resources for educators and families and is available in both English and Spanish.  In addition to pertinent articles, there are also video resources on this website.