Monroe Elementary Language Academy Receives Statewide Recognition

• Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Monroe Elementary Language Academy was honored for its outstanding Spanish dual language immersion program during the 2018 Golden Bell Awards ceremony at the California School Board Association (CSBA) Conference in San Francisco last week. Monroe was one of only two dual language schools out of 400 across the state to receive this prestigious award.

“We are so proud of the amazing staff at Monroe Elementary Language Academy for putting in place an exceptional Spanish dual language program that is preparing students for a global economy,” said Bob Harden, Board of Education president.  “As a state leader in successful dual immersion schools, Monroe is giving its students a unique competitive advantage of becoming bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural young students.” 

On hand to accept the award on behalf of Monroe were Principal Cesar Loya, school secretary Letty Estrada, and teachers, Maestra Ramirez, Maestra Tavares, and Maestro Nuñez. Garden Grove Unified School District Board of Education President Bob Harden, Vice President Lan Nguyen, and trustees Teri Rocco, and Walter Muneton were also in attendance to celebrate the honor.

The CSBA Golden Bell Awards promote excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school districts and boards throughout California. Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of education programs and governance decisions supporting these programs that are necessary to address students’ changing needs.

Monroe Elementary Language Academy has experienced tremendous success since opening in 2016.  The school follows a 90:10 model, where students begin the program as transitional kindergarten or kindergarten students learning in Spanish 90 percent of the time and in English 10 percent of the time. By sixth grade, students learn in both languages 50 percent of the time. Students in transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, third, and sixth grade have the opportunity to earn Pathway to Biliteracy awards, demonstrating they are meeting important milestones.

In addition to its outstanding language program, Monroe provides rich educational experiences for students including use of innovative technology, cultural celebrations, after-school intervention and enrichment, Boys & Girls Club, and an engaged parent community.

Latest News