The Ripon Unified School District is kicking off the Ripona Language Academy.
That’s the dual-language immersion program – approved recently by the Ripon Unified school board to be held at Ripona Elementary School for the 2021-22 school year – designed to accompany English with an acquired second language.
Beginning next school, the Ripona Language Academy will feature one class of kindergarteners along with another consisting of first-grade students having the opportunity to learn in two languages, English and Spanish.
“Each year, an additional grade level will be added until expanding to capacity. The goals of the program include bilingualism, biliteracy, academic achievement, and socio-cultural competence,” said Superintendent Ziggy Robeson.
She noted that program scholars will have a strong start towards earning the Seal of Biliteracy at their high school graduation with the goal of developing fluent speakers in English and Spanish.
“I am looking forward to nurturing, encouraging, and fostering critical thinking skills that will allow my students to be lifelong learners, who will be positive contributors to society,” said Elizabeth Aguiniga, who is one of the Ripona Language Academy teachers.
The Ripona Language Academy is a 50/50 program, which means half of the day will be taught in English while the other half in Spanish. Lessons are taught using one language at a time.
The program, spearheaded by Ripona Principal Nate Baroni and his team, follows the District’s core curriculum, grade-level Common Core State Standards and uses state-adopted materials.
The language of coding is scheduled to be taught throughout each grade level at Ripona School. Students, in addition, will be involved in Hour of Code activities, robotics and/or other STEAM focused projects.
A video on Ripona Language Academy can be seen at www.riponusd.net.enrollment-registration.
Enrollment is currently underway and space is limited.
This is a multi-year program and commitment.
Information or to register for the Ripona Language Academy Plan is available at www.riponusd.net.
Additional questions may be directed to Renee Roberts at 209.599.2131 or email reroberts@riponusd.net.
