Fiddlers Canyon Elementary School Pioneers Chinese Dual Immersion Program For Academic Success

Fiddlers Canyon Elementary School in Cedar City, Utah, is leading the way in bilingual education with its innovative Chinese Dual Immersion program. Under the leadership of Principal Michelle Hall and supported by skilled educators like Yi Yang and Xiang Xiu Zhang, the program has gained recognition for its academic rigor and cultural enrichment.

The program begins in first grade, with students receiving half of their daily instruction entirely in Chinese. Core subjects such as math, science, and language arts are taught in the target language, immersing students in both the curriculum and the language. This method has proven to be highly effective. “Even though they start with no background in Chinese, students quickly adapt,” explained Zhang, a second-grade teacher. “We use visuals, sounds, and body language to make learning engaging and accessible.”

Dr. T / Canva

Dr. T / Canva

Remarkably, students in the dual immersion program often excel academically. Hall shared an impressive milestone, saying, “This year, we saw 100% proficiency in math among one class of students who had learned the subject entirely in Chinese through third grade. Most of them were highly proficient as well.” Research supports these outcomes, showing that students in language immersion programs tend to outperform their peers in other subjects, including math and English language arts.

Beyond academics, the program emphasizes cultural understanding. Zhang and Yang incorporate lessons on Chinese traditions while encouraging comparisons to American customs. “We celebrate both similarities and differences,” said Yang, a fifth-grade teacher. “For example, we discuss how families in both cultures come together over food during celebrations. It’s a way to connect and broaden perspectives.”

Utah has become a leader in dual language education, with Fiddlers Canyon offering one of the most dynamic programs in the state. “Learning Chinese expands students’ opportunities and prepares them for a globalized world,” said Hall. Another school in the district also offers a Spanish immersion program, making the schoolo district a hub for language learning in Iron County.

Enrollment is open to all families in the district, regardless of zoning. Hall encourages parents to explore the program, emphasizing its benefits. “This program thrives on diversity and participation. We invite families to visit and see the incredible progress students make in two languages,” she said.

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