Academics
A public school, DIAS is the fourth school in Salinas City Elementary School District (SCESD) to offer a Spanish dual immersion program and the first school to offer only dual immersion classes. DIAS was the school in the district to offer a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) curriculum. STEAM encourages unique solutions, inventive thinking and problem solving.
Dual Immersion
DIAS integrates both native English speakers and native Spanish speakers for the entire school day. DIAS provides the 90:10 model in the first two grades (courses taught in 90% Spanish and 10% English) and incrementally increases the amount of English to a 50:50 model in the upper grades. All students learn to read, write, and speak fluently in English and Spanish.
STEAM
In addition to immersing students in language and literacy, the educational program at DIAS integrates and emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics). STEAM encourages unique solutions, inventive thinking and problem solving. Arts help students build confidence, develop motor skills, and hone their decision-making skills.
Common Core
Since 2010, a number of states across the nation have adopted the same standards for English and math. These standards are called the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Having the same standards helps all students get a good education, even if they change schools or move to a different state. Teachers, parents, and education experts designed the CCSS to prepare students for success in college and the workplace.
