E.L. Wright Middle School

Program  Mission

In collaboration with all community stakeholders the Language Immersion program at E.L. Wright Middle school seeks to develop bilingual, bi-literate, academically proficient, and culturally competent 21st century learners through engaging and challenging academic opportunities. 

The Language Immersion Academy at E.L. Wright 

The Spanish Language Immersion Academy at ELW offers students an exceptional opportunity to profoundly and integratedly immerse themselves in the Spanish language and Hispanic culture. What sets this academy apart is its innovative approach to Spanish language teaching, which goes beyond traditional methods to provide an environment where Spanish is learned, lived, and experienced daily. 

The Spanish Language Immersion Academy is unique because of its focus on total immersion. From the moment students enter the classroom, they are encouraged to communicate exclusively in Spanish. This approach allows students to develop their language skills naturally, much like they would learn their native language.

Additionally, the program incorporates a variety of resources and activities designed to enrich the learning experience. This includes using authentic materials such as books, films, music, and digital resources in Spanish. Cultural events, like Hispanic film festivals, cooking workshops, and traditional celebrations, are also organized to allow students to experience the richness and diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures firsthand.

To be admitted to our program, students must possess the required language proficiency, demonstrate natural fluency, and have extensive content knowledge in Spanish. 

Requirements to enter the academy 

Students who exit our elementary immersion program at Polo Road Elementary are guaranteed placement in our program at E. L. Wright.  Students who are coming from a school with a Spanish immersion program, have attended school in a Spanish-speaking country, or are from a Spanish-speaking country are welcome to apply to the program. 

Sixth-grade students who did not exit our elementary program at Polo Road, will take an assessment to determine the child’s ability to read, speak, and listen in Spanish. If the student’s proficiency is equivalent to his/her grade level peers, the student will be accepted into the Language Immersion Academy. 

Seventh—or eighth-grade students who wish to enter the Language Immersion Academy must take two assessments: a proficiency assessment and a content knowledge assessment in Spanish. If the student’s proficiency and content knowledge are equivalent to those of his/her grade-level peers, the student will be cleared to apply to enter the Language Immersion Academy.

Benefits of our Spanish Language Immersion Academy 

Comprehensive Language Development: By being exposed to Spanish in different contexts and situations, students develop skills in all areas of the language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This promotes a well-rounded and profound learning experience.

Increased Fluency and Confidence: Continuous immersion helps students think in Spanish and use the language more fluently and naturally. As they become more comfortable, their confidence in effectively communicating in various situations grows.

Cultural Awareness: Students gain a broader and deeper understanding of the Hispanic world through exposure to various Spanish-speaking cultures. This cultural knowledge is essential for effective intercultural communication and the development of a global perspective.

Preparation for the Future: Students who participate in the Spanish Language Immersion Academy are better prepared to take advantage of academic and professional opportunities in an increasingly globalized world. Proficiency in Spanish, one of the most widely spoken languages globally, is a valuable skill in many careers.  

As students move through our dual language immersion program, we remain committed to our initial goal for them to become bilingual and biliterate, and able to successfully navigate multiple cultures in their lives and careers. Participation in the Language Immersion magnet, will prepare students for the next stage of their language development, whether this is pursuing Advanced Placement (AP) or entering a dual-enrollment program at the college level, or using their language skills in the workplace. Students will also be eligible to apply for the South Carolina Seal of Biliteracy, an award that advances the state's commitment to preparing every learner for college- and career-readiness in an increasingly international community by recognizing learners who attain levels of proficiency in English and at least one other world language required in the global workforce.

What about the other magnets at E.L. Wright?

E.L. Wright is home to the Leadership Academy at Wright (LAW Magnet Program) ,  which focuses on developing leadership skills in children in grades sixth through eighth grade. If a student is accepted into LAW and meets the qualifications for the language immersion program, they will be able to participate in both magnets.