Dual Language Immersion Programs (Spanish & Mandarin)

EMCSD is committed to providing opportunities for children to become bilingual, bicultural and biliterate in Spanish and Mandarin. Our goal is to develop academic proficiency in English, Spanish, and Mandarin to prepare students for a multicultural and multilingual world. Our Spanish and Mandarin Dual Language Programs are offered at two campuses in the District.

These programs are completely free. If you do not live within the New Lexington or Durfee school area, don't worry, we will happily grant you an intra-district permit so your child can be part of this wonderful program!

Spanish Dual Language Immersion is currently offered at Durfee School. Interested parents can contact the school directly at (626) 443-3900.

Mandarin Dual Language Immersion is currently offered at New Lexington School. Interested parents can contact the school directly at (626) 575-2320.

If parents are interested enrolling your child in a Dual Language Immersion program, but don't live within Durfee or New Lexington School boundaries, it's okay! We will gladly offer you an intra-district permit so your child can be part of the program. For questions involving District permits, please contact the District main office at (626) 453-3700.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Mandarin DLI

Does my student need to know how to speak Mandarin or Spanish to be in the program?
Nope. Mandarin and Spanish speaking experience is not required to be part of our DLI program.

Can my student be in DLI if they are already proficient in Mandarin or Spanish?
Yes. We welcome ALL levels of mandarin speaking ability from "no experience" to "expert level".

Does DLI stop at TK?
No. Our DLI programs continue to grow at New Lexington and Durfee school. Each year we aim to add another Dual Language grade level to help further our students bilingual journey.

Is Mandarin DLI only available at New Lexington?
Yes. As of right now, Mandarin DLI is only housed at New Lexington School.

Is Spanish DLI only available at Durfee?
Yes. As of right now, Spanish DLI is only housed at Durfee School.

What if my student is already enrolled at another school?
That's okay! We will gladly provide an intra-district permit to any family hoping to participate in our DLI program.