Dual Language / Bilingual Education

Bank Street's master's programs in Dual Language / Bilingual Education are designed for bilingual (Spanish and English) teachers and prospective educators who wish to work in bilingual and/or dual-language classrooms with students in Early Childhood (birth through grade 2) or Childhood (grades 1 through 6) classrooms. You will explore the academic, social and political issues surrounding the education of children for whom English is a new or second language. Through study of rich curriculum development and classroom management techniques, you will develop a wide teaching repertoire and an understanding of the needs of children. In turn, you will learn to create supportive learning environments that value cultural heritage and dual-language development. Spanish-speaking children enter the classroom with varying levels of English proficiency. You will learn to provide rich curricular experiences in a bilingual or dual-language format that respects the native language and at the same time teaches fluency in English. Through interactive discussions and hands-on classroom experiences, you will develop a deep understanding of the wide range of academic, intellectual, linguistic, and emotional needs of bilingual students. In fieldwork, you will learn to implement the specific skills needed to work effectively in traditional bilingual and dual-language settings. Special attention will be paid to learning to work in urban settings. Our programs are grounded in progressive education theory. Programs include dual language and bilingual education for early childhood, childhood, and special education.