Batesville’s Dual Language Immersion Program
Written by: Andrew Pillow
In a recent episode of the Dual Language Emerging series for Keep Indiana Learning, Educator Barnes caught up with Paul Ketchum, Superintendent of Batesville Community School Corporation, to discuss the success and growth of Batesville’s Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program.
Program Inception and Structure
Batesville’s DLI program began in 2016, initially offering a 50-50 model where kindergarten students spent half their day learning in English and the other half immersed in Mandarin with native speakers. This program, now reaching its seventh year, was initially conceived to enhance students’ cognitive abilities and cultural awareness from a young age. Ketchum, who inherited the program in 2017, emphasized the importance of early language acquisition, noting that younger brains are more adaptable to learning new languages. A statement backed up by years of research both by his predecessors and third parties.
Growth and Adaptation
Under Ketchum’s leadership, the program has evolved. Initially starting with a 50-50 immersion model, the program faced challenges in achieving fluency among students. This led to a shift towards a 90-10 model, where students now spend 90% of their time immersed in Mandarin. This change has resulted in improved fluency and comprehension among students. Currently, approximately 250-275 students, or 15% of Batesville’s student population, participate in the DLI program.
“This initiative aims to prepare students for a globalized economy, enhancing their employability and cultural competence.”
Community and Business Integration
The decision to offer Mandarin was strategic, given its global significance and the presence of large local employers like Wood-Mizer, which operates internationally. This initiative aims to prepare students for a globalized economy, enhancing their employability and cultural competence. Ketchum highlighted the positive reception from parents and the community, noting the unique cultural enrichment it brings to rural Indiana.
Operational Challenges and Solutions
Ketchum detailed several logistical and cultural challenges in maintaining the program. Recruiting qualified Mandarin-speaking teachers required international partnerships and navigating visa processes. To support these teachers, Batesville provided housing and facilitated their acclimatization to the community. Additionally, the school district adjusted its approach to homework, recognizing that parents might struggle to assist with Mandarin assignments.
Student Progress and Future Plans
The program’s success is evident as the initial cohort of kindergarteners is now earning high school credits in Mandarin by the seventh grade. Looking ahead, Batesville plans to partner with higher education institutions like Ball State University to offer college credits in Mandarin, further enhancing the program’s value.
“As a teacher, I love how open-minded my students are. They always want to learn more about the world outside of Batesville. It is amazing to have a little kid who asks questions about different cultures and is interested in different perspectives,” said Guili Zhang, a teacher in the program.”
Reception
Parents and teachers have showered praise on the program. They note how students are becoming better global citizens due to the exposure.
“As a teacher, I love how open-minded my students are. They always want to learn more about the world outside of Batesville. It is amazing to have a little kid who asks questions about different cultures and is interested in different perspectives,” said Guili Zhang, a teacher in the program. “Learning Mandarin also benefits my students’ fine motor skills because of the way we write Chinese characters. I am also thankful for the school providing students with a broader vision, for example, partnering with higher education institutions.”
Advice for Other Districts
For districts considering similar programs, Ketchum advises building a strong support network and dedicating a committed team member to manage the complexities of a DLI program. Despite the challenges, he asserts that the benefits for students make the effort worthwhile.
Resources
Please login or register to claim PGPs.
Alternatively, you may use the PGP Request Form if you prefer to not register an account.
