The Morgan County School District Board Meeting on May 19, 2025, highlighted the impressive progress of the district's Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program, with students demonstrating strong academic performance compared to their peers in traditional tracks.
During the meeting, educators presented data from the NWEA, a nationally normed test, showing that DLI students are either keeping pace with or outperforming their traditional counterparts in subjects such as science, reading, language use, and math. Notably, eighth-grade DLI students scored at the 56th percentile in math, closely aligning with the 54th percentile of their algebra peers. This data suggests that the DLI program is effectively supporting student achievement, even as it faces scrutiny regarding its structure and resource allocation.
The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by DLI students, particularly in language proficiency assessments. Educators acknowledged that while students are performing well overall, certain areas, like speaking, present difficulties. The Avant test results indicated that students are achieving functional fluency, which is essential for everyday communication in Spanish.
The board expressed pride in the DLI program's outcomes, crediting the dedication of teachers and the support from parents and the community. As the program continues to evolve, the district remains committed to monitoring student progress and ensuring that all learners receive the support they need to succeed.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the positive trajectory of the DLI program, reinforcing the district's commitment to bilingual education and the academic success of its students. The board anticipates further developments as they continue to evaluate and enhance the program in the coming years.