San Gabriel Valley in California to add Mandarin immersion program

From: San Gabriel Valley Tribune

West Covina Unified is set to launch its first Mandarin dual language immersion program at Orangewood Elementary School this fall.

The program will be open to kindergarten students. Enrollment will open March 4, and the program is set to launch in August.

West Covina Unified already offers a Spanish dual language immersion program at Orangewood and Monte Vista elementary schools.

The Mandarin program was approved by the West Covina Unified school board at its Feb. 12 meeting.

“Students who participate in (immersion) programs develop greater cognitive flexibility, increase academic growth and develop a more positive understanding of other cultures,” school board President Daniel C. Monarrez said in a statement. “We are proud to provide our students with another resource to ensure they are prepared to compete in a global economy and thrive in college and their careers.”

Please read more here.