Holyoke Public Schools offers a Dual Language program designed to support students in developing proficiency in both Spanish and English. The primary objective of this program is for students to attain the Seal of Biliteracy, which certifies their ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in both languages. This certification can provide students with expanded opportunities in higher education and the workforce.

According to the Holyoke Public Schools website, the program’s goal is to help students achieve high levels of academic success, bilingualism, and biliteracy within an inclusive learning environment that values multiculturalism and prepares students for college and careers.

The Dual Language program spans all grade levels, beginning in Pre-Kindergarten and continuing through 12th grade. At the early education level, the program is available at Kelly School and E.N. White School, where students spend approximately 80% of their instructional time in Spanish. As they progress, the percentage of instruction in Spanish gradually decreases—70% in first grade and 50% from grades 2 through 5.

At the middle school level, the program is based at Sullivan School, where students take two to three courses in Spanish per year while continuing instruction in English. At Holyoke High School North, students in grades 9 and 10 continue with two courses in Spanish per year, while in grades 11 and 12, they take two to three Spanish-language courses.

In addition to the Dual Language program, Holyoke Public Schools offers the Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) program. Unlike the Dual Language program, SEI focuses on helping students develop proficiency in English while using their native language for support when necessary. The SEI program aims to promote English language development through two instructional approaches:

• Sheltered Content Instruction (SCI): This method uses specific teaching strategies to make academic content more accessible while encouraging the development of academic language.
• English as a Second Language (ESL) Instruction: This approach provides direct and structured instruction in English to prepare students for participation in general education courses.

Holyoke’s linguistic programs align with the district’s demographics, where approximately 90% of students come from Spanish-speaking households. The district continues to serve over 5,300 students and offers various supports for bilingual learners.

In addition to these programs, Holyoke Public Schools provides standardized tests in Spanish, including Spanish versions of the MCAS and the Star test, as well as the option for students to take assessments in either English or Spanish when available. These accommodations aim to support students in demonstrating their academic abilities while developing their language skills.