What is PASI?

PASI advocates for and supports the Spanish Immersion Program in Sioux Falls Public Schools with a primary focus on interns who enhance the language and cultural experience in the classrooms and in the community. As a 503(c) non-profit, PASI donates money through grants for teacher development and resources for the classrooms and libraries. 

Why immerse your kids?

…because it’s a recipe for success.

There are many benefits to being able to understand, speak, read, and write in more than one language. 

• Research has shown additional cognitive, academic, and employment benefits for bilingual students  

• Gain respect and understanding for other cultures

• Development of problem-solving skills and flexible thinking

• Increase of cognitive development

• Opens doors to future travel, education, and career opportunities 

• The scores speak for themselves- academic proficiency in two languages (English & Spanish)

          5 Simple Reasons     |     What Research Shows     |     U of MN Studies |    The benefits of a bilingual brain

Why Spanish?

Spanish is the most common second language in the United States. It is the fourth most commonly spoken language in the world (after English, Chinese and Hindustani). While it is the official language on four continents, it is frequently spoken as a second language in Europe as well. The Hispanic population is the fastest growing demographic within the United States. This presents great domestic opportunities, as well as career opportunities for bilingual professionals.

Countries in Latin America are strengthening and expanding their economies, therefore they are becoming more important as trading partners with the United States. Many countries Latin America has signed, or are on the verge of signing on to NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), were originally set up by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This should further strengthen trade and business ties between these countries and the U.S.A., making the Spanish language an even more important asset for Americans in the business world.

The Kindergarten - 12th  grade immersion experience.

Children experience the Spanish language and culture throughout their education. From age 5 to 18 children have the opportunity to immerse his/herself in the Spanish language and culture at every grade level- elementary, middle, and high school. Spanish Immersion and Two-Way Immersion sites are located at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary, Hayward Elementary, and Rosa Parks Elementary. Spanish and Two- Way Immersion students join together at Edison and our 9th-12th grade students continue their education at Lincoln High School. 

The PASI mission:

To support and advocate for students, teachers, and interns in the Sioux Falls Public Schools Spanish Immersion Program.