Foreign Language in Elementary Schools (FLES)

What is the Spanish FLES program?

The Foreign Language in Elementary Schools (FLES) program is designed to develop students’ proficiency in Spanish language and culture. The program aims to enhance students' language skills, cognitive abilities, and cultural awareness through engaging and interactive learning experiences.

Which languages are offered in the FLES program?
The FLES program in District 2 will be in Spanish.  Spanish was chosen due to our community’s demographics, it’s the language that has the highest enrollment at Fenton and the opportunity for all students to be able to become proficient in reading, writing, listening and speaking in more than one language.  

What grade levels participate in the FLES program?
The FLES program will begin in the 2025-26 school year with our 1st grade students in both of our elementary schools and will roll up each year until 8th grade.  The program will be embedded in the school day for all students.  

What does rolling up each year mean? 

It means that the program will start in 1st grade in the 2025-26 school year and the following grade level will be added each year into the program. 

Will any changes be made to the Dual Language Program? 

No, students who are in Dual Language will remain in Dual Language.  Students who are in Dual Language already receive daily Spanish instruction so there will be no changes to their day.  However, adding this Spanish class for ALL students will allow more opportunities for Dual Language students to collaborate with all students in Spanish and English.  

How is the FLES program structured?
A Spanish teacher will push into the classroom to provide Spanish instruction to all students for 25 minutes a day on regular school days.  Spanish instruction will not be held on Tuesdays due to the shortened day.  Lessons will focus on academic vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Activities may include songs, games, stories, and cultural projects to make learning fun and engaging.

What curriculum/subject areas will be shortened or affected in order to fit FLES into the school day? 

No curriculum or subject areas will be impacted by the addition of FLES.  With the adoption of a new math and literacy curriculum we are able to allocate appropriate minutes to all subject areas while adding the FLES time.  In fact, FLES will have focus on grade level content so it will enhance and support the work already being done in the classroom.   

What are the benefits of learning a second language at a young age?
Research indicates that early language acquisition can lead to improved cognitive skills, enhanced problem-solving abilities, better academic performance in other subjects, and increased cultural sensitivity and appreciation. Here are some additional articles regarding the benefits: 

• Cognitive benefits of Bilingualism 
• Benefits of being Bilingual
• Bilingual Language Development Myths vs Facts
• Cognitive Benefits of Being Bilingual 

Do I need to know the target language to support my child?
No, prior knowledge of the target language is not necessary. Parents can support their children by encouraging practice, engaging in cultural activities, and providing a positive environment for language learning.

How can I help my child practice at home?
You can support language learning at home by: 

• Listening to songs or watching videos in the target language.
• Reading books in the target language.
• Practicing simple vocabulary words and phrases.
• Encouraging participation in cultural events or community activities related to the language.

Will my child be fluent by the end of the program?
The goal of the FLES program is for students to achieve advanced levels of proficiency in Spanish by the time they leave 8th grade.  This will promote advanced language course opportunities and a pathway to the Seal of Biliteracy when the students get to high school. 

What is the Seal of Biliteracy? 

The Seal of Biliteracy is an award presented at graduation on a student’s transcript that recognizes their attainment of high proficiency in English and in one or more additional languages.  Students also can earn college credit at public colleges and universities in the State of Illinois for this attainment.  Here is some additional information on the Seal of Biliteracy.

How is student progress assessed?
Student progress will be assessed through various formative and summative assessments, including participation, classroom activities, and informal evaluations. Student progress will be reported on the report card. 

Is there a cost for the FLES program?
No, there is no extra cost to families.  The program is part of the district’s general curriculum at no additional cost. 

Who can I contact for more information?
For more information, please contact Dr. Katie McCluskey, Superintendent kmccluskey@bsd2.org or Dr. Anne Paonessa, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, aponessa@bd2.org.