Since 2006 Zeeland Christian has offered a total immersion program for students who want to become fully fluent in the Spanish language.
It is the largest and most established Christian Spanish Immersion program in Michigan. With Spanish being one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world, fluency in this language opens up an array of cultures and opportunities for our students.
What is Immersion?
Immersion is a term used to describe a method of teaching languages. ZCS curriculum is based on a Total Immersion Model, in which the teacher speaks only in the target language, Spanish, throughout the lessons. Our teachers know that for many children this will be the first time for learning another language. For that reason, they sing, dance, use picture cards, objects, and anything necessary in order to help with comprehension.
When can students join?
Students join the program in threeschool, preschool, kindergarten, or 1st grade. Every class is taught entirely in the Spanish language through 2nd grade. Yes, every class!
When/How is English Introduced?
- Starting in third grade, the students learn their Social Studies curriculum in English. The teachers focus on English-specific skills that students need to know in English, integrated into their Social Studies instruction.
- Students are taught to read, write and converse in Spanish by being constantly immersed in the language.
- By 5th grade, students are considered fluent when compared to a native-speaking 5th grader.
How is Spanish supported beyond 5th grade?
- Beginning in 6th grade, students enter the Secondary Continuing Immersion Program. The goal is to build on the communication skills learned in elementary school while expanding the academic vocabulary. Students do that by continuing to learning three of there courses fully in Spanish. The rest of the day is spent in traditional classes mixed in with the rest of the student body.
- ZCS immersion students can continue their education at the high school level. Our sister school, Holland Christian High School, offers a continuing Spanish immersion program similar to our middle school immersion program. You can find out more about that program HERE. Studies show that it’s important for students who want to retain the language to continue their education in it all the way through high school.
Students in our Spanish immersion program also receive the benefits of our Mandarin FLES program. Currently, all elementary Spanish immersion students study Mandarin 60 minutes a week. Research shows that after children learn a second language, it is considerably easier to learn a third or fourth language. Our Spanish immersion students are thrilled with the opportunity to learn a third language at school.
The best way to learn more about Spanish immersion? Call and schedule a tour. There is nothing like seeing and hearing the children in action! We recommend that families interested in Spanish immersion contact Jodi Pierce at jpierce@zcs.org.
Note: Space is limited in our Spanish immersion early childhood classes. However, students who enter the program in Threeschool are able to pre-register for Spanish immersion preschool class options.
Interested in Learning More About ZCS?
We believe the best way to learn about a school is to see it firsthand. Complete our inquiry form to schedule a personal tour around our campus.