Bremerton School District
elementary spanish immersion
What is Spanish Immersion?
Elementary Spanish Immersion
Naval Avenue Early Learning Center
900 Olympic Avenue
Bremerton, WA 98312
360.473.4400
For more information contact:
Sue Shipley
sueaship@comcast.net
Phone: 360.649.6445
Linda Jenkins
linda.jenkins@bsd.wednet.edu
Phone: 360.473.1006
John Welsh
john.welsh@bsd.wednet.edu
360.473.4400
The Spanish Immersion Program is an option for students in the Bremerton School District. It gives English-speaking students an opportunity to complete the Bremerton School District curriculum in a non-traditional and exciting way -- by immersing them in the Spanish language and culture from Kindergarten through fifth grade. This program began in in 2007. Currently, the program goes through second grade.
What if no one at home speaks Spanish?
The program was designed primarily for children of families who do not speak Spanish. Report cards, notices, and newsletters are issued in English. However, children whose parents obtain at least a basic knowledge of the language may have an advantage. Spanish homework assignments are not translated into English and it is not expected that parents will assist in Spanish homework activities.
Naval Avenue Early Learning Center is a family-centered school. Students and parents are part of the Naval Ave Early Learning Center Community and the Spanish Immersion
Community. 
Parent meetings will be held throughout the year to
provide strong family-to-family relationships, as well as
connections between family and school.
Why should I choose Spanish Immersion for my child?
Studies have found that learning a second language at an early age has many benefits:
- There is a positive effect on brain development and
intellectual growth. - Students gain flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity
to language, and a better ear for listening. - It opens the door to other cultures and helps children
understand and appreciate people from other
countries. - Students acquire Spanish language fluency.
- Spanish Immersion produces successful learners who
perform well on tests (e.g., WASL). - Student have increased job opportunities in many
careers where knowledge of another language is an asset.
How does this program differ from other programs?
Students in the Spanish Immersion Program are taught the standard Bremerton School District curriculum, but receive instruction in Spanish. Students will learn to understand, speak, read, and write Spanish in addition to English. It is mandatory that students have a strong foundation in English to be a participant in the Spanish Immersion Program.
Our Spanish Immersion teachers are bilingual and biliterate; this means they have the ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish and English and are chosen for their skills and their commitments to the goals of the program.
At the elementary level (K-5), students receive the majority of the instruction in Spanish. Teachers speak Spanish to the students, while making sure they understand instructions and receive answers to their questions. English reading and language arts are introduced in mid-second grade.
Can I visit the Spanish Immersion classroom?
Yes. If you think the Spanish Immersion Program might work for your child, parents are welcome to visit our Continuing program K-5 classroom. Contact Sue Shipley to make arrangements.
Is transportation available?
Yes. Transportation will be available for students participating in the Spanish Immersion Program at Naval Avenue. Students will be picked up at their home school and returned after school.
How do I register my child for the Spanish Immersion Program?
Parents can register their child for the Spanish Immersion Program at the Naval Avenue Early Learning Center, or at the District Office, 134 N. Marion Avenue. There is no cost to parents for this program. At time of registration, please bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate and immunization record. Registration Forms
