Parent Voices and Visions in the Construction of Two-Way Dual-Language Bilingual Education Programs

• In Event: Connecting Families and Bilingual Education: Communication and Dual-Language Education

Abstract

This study examines parent perspectives about the construction of a two-way Dual Language program in the context of an urban area in South Texas, and analyzes the factors that contribute to their decision about their children’s participation in such program. Our main data sources include six parent interviews and three testimonios from a district meeting. We found that besides the general goals of DLBE programs (i.e., academic achievement, bilingualism, and biculturalism), there are additional factors that DLBE programs need to consider to better serve linguistically and culturally diverse communities, namely meeting families’ basic needs, family values, the creation of some sense of community, the recognition of the voice of parents, and parents’ sense of social justice.

Authors

• Lina M. Martin Corredor, Metropolitan State College of Denver

• Kathryn I. Henderson, The University of Texas - San Antonio

• Adriana Alvarez, University of Colorado - Denver