Changes to Northfield Compañeros program benefits both Spanish, English speakers

This school district is teaching Spanish and English in a new program, with success.   - - Donna Poisl

By ERIN O’NEILL 

Four years ago, the Northfield School District took a big step and made the first significant changes to the Compañeros language immersion program since its inception in 1993.

Now, as teachers grow accustomed to the new program and its young pioneers enter 4th grade, it’s clear that the change was a good one, according to those involved.

“One of the biggest benefits [of the new program] is having a literature piece in Spanish,” said Erik Swenson, the 4th grade Compañeros teacher at Bridgewater Elementary. “We’re really taking a look at the Spanish language more closely. Having language arts formally taught is going to make a huge difference.”
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