FCPS Language Immersion Programs

[Anonymous]

Does anyone have experience with Fairfax County Public School's language immersion program? The elementary school in our neighborhood offers 1st graders Spanish immersion for math, science and health. I want to know if anyone had success or good things to say about the program.

My gut is telling me that I would rather my child focus on math and science in english. I know opting out is an option but is it something people commonly do? Any advice is appreciated.

[Anonymous]

Aren't they thinking of getting rid of immersion in elementary schools next year because of the budget? I am a hs teacher, but I think I read that they were pretty much planning to get rid of all foreign language in elementary - horrible in my opinion.

[Anonymous]

Just saw this post/question when looking for something else. My wife and I have two children in language immersion within FCPS. We could not be more pleased with our experience. As for our children's math and science abilities, they are both doing very well. Our son, in particular, is performing well-above grade level. The addition of the language learning seems to have done nothing to slow their learning in the subjects studied.

That said, the high school teacher is correct that language immersion is under fire due to budget constraints. Those of us in the program are trying to save this unique program, but it's hard to say right now whether or not we'll be successful.