Redlands Unified to launch Spanish dual language program
Spanish-English program will begin with TK and kindergarten at McKinley Elementary in 2026–27 and expand by grade level
REDLANDS, Calif. — Redlands Unified School District will launch a Spanish dual language immersion program at McKinley Elementary School beginning in the 2026–27 school year, with district officials encouraging families to attend upcoming informational meetings and submit interest forms.
The program will open with transitional kindergarten and kindergarten in August 2026 and expand by grade level in subsequent years, according to the district.
Dual language immersion programs are designed to help students become bilingual, biliterate and culturally proficient through instruction in both English and Spanish. District officials say the model supports academic achievement while promoting language development and cross-cultural understanding.
“Introducing this program at the earliest grades allows students to develop these skills naturally and progressively,” Superintendent Juan Cabral said in a statement. “This reflects our commitment to preparing students for future academic, social and global success.”
To introduce families to the program, Redlands Unified will host dual language immersion informational meetings on Wednesday, Jan. 28.
A virtual session will be held from 9 to 10 a.m., followed by an in-person meeting from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at McKinley Elementary School, 645 W. Olive Ave. Parking for the evening meeting will be limited to neighborhood street parking.
During the meetings, families will learn how the dual language immersion program works, the academic and social benefits of bilingual education, and details about program goals and curriculum. Families will also be encouraged to complete an interest form to help the district plan enrollment and future program needs.
The interest form and virtual meeting access are available on the district’s website.
The district has appointed Minerva Castorena as principal to lead the program at McKinley Elementary. Officials said her background in bilingual education and instructional leadership will guide implementation of the new program.
More information is available at redlandsusd.net.
