Lessons from a Dual Language Bilingual School - (Bilingual Education & Bilingualism)

About the Book

Celebrating 10 years of Dos Puentes Elementary School in New York City, this book showcases the lessons, successes and challenges of developing a fully bilingual school. It centers the voices of those directly involved in the school community and features discussion by researchers on the implications for the field of bilingual education.

Book Synopsis

Celebrating 10 years of Dos Puentes Elementary School in New York City, this book showcases the lessons, successes and challenges of developing a fully bilingual school. It centers the voices of those directly involved in the school community and features discussion by researchers on the implications for the field of bilingual education.

Review Quotes

In a political moment, where so much seems impossible and so many seem bent on using our differences to divide, Lessons from a Dual Language Bilingual School is a balm. Through rich narrative, scholarly reflections, and dynamic collaboration, this book offers a roadmap of possibilities not just for those interested in bilingual education, but for all interested in creating and maintaining schools that not only teach but care for communities.

Dive into the transformative world of Dos Puentes, where educators, parents, and university partners cultivate a bilingual sanctuary rooted in cultural affirmation and critical consciousness. In a rich tapestry of voices, this book celebrates joyful teaching and learning, authentic collaboration, and unwavering commitment to students' identities as agents of change. An indispensable source of inspiration for building truly equitable dual language programs.

This decade of rich reflections and experiences serves as a powerful lesson and inspiration for anyone interested in developing equitable dual language bilingual programs. This volume emerges from a committed community and guides readers on an incredible and unique journey, making it an indispensable resource for pre- and in-service teachers and leaders.

About the Author

Tatyana Kleyn is Professor of Bilingual Education and TESOL at The City College of New York, USA, and co-founder of Dos Puentes Elementary School. She is Principal Investigator for the City University of New York - Initiative on Immigration and Education (CUNY-IIE) and has produced numerous books, articles and films on bilingual education, translanguaging and immigration.

Victoria Hunt is the current and founding Principal of Dos Puentes Elementary School. She holds a doctorate in leadership and bilingual education and received dissertation awards from the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Bilingual Education Research SIG and the National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE).

Alcira Jaar is Assistant Principal and founding staff member of Dos Puentes Elementary School. Alcira holds a doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University, and has been an educator in New York City Public Schools for over 20 years.

Rebeca Madrigal is a founding bilingual teacher of Dos Puentes Elementary School. She earned an MA from Teachers College, Columbia University, and has over 20 years of experience in New York City Public Schools. Rebeca received the Bilingual Teacher of the Year Award from the New York State Association for Bilingual Education (NYSABE).

Consuelo Villegas was the founding Parent Coordinator at Dos Puentes Elementary School. She held numerous positions in New York City Public Schools over 23 years and has been honored for her work in Civil Service. She was awarded NYSABE Bilingual Support Personnel of the Year.