Learning a new language opens doors—to new cultures, new opportunities and a broader understanding of the world. At Volusia County Schools, the Multilingual Learners Department is making sure students get that opportunity through the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) World Languages, and Dual Language programs.
I spoke with Gianna Acevedo Alamo, who leads these initiatives, about how the district is expanding language education and how parents can support their child's bilingual journey.
What sparked your passion for language learning?
My passion for language learning started in third grade in Puerto Rico. My instruction was primarily in Spanish, but I had one period of English and a special area of French. I was fascinated by the exposure to different languages, which sparked my curiosity about cultures and travel—a passion that has stayed with me ever since.
Can you give us a big-picture look at Volusia County Schools' multilingual learners program?
We are proud to offer a thriving Dual Language program, where students receive instruction in both English and Spanish. In just three years, this program has expanded to six schools.
📌 How it works:
Students spend half the day learning in one language before transitioning to a different teacher who instructs in a second language.
In some schools, children can start as young as 4 years old.
At the secondary level, we offer Spanish, French, Japanese and German as world language courses. Plus, we provide targeted ESOL support to help multilingual learners acquire English while succeeding academically.
Where do world language courses fit into the school day?
At the secondary level, world languages are elective courses, but they are strongly encouraged—especially for students planning to apply to college.
Our Dual Language program is a choice-based program, meaning it is not required but is highly sought after by families who want their children to become bilingual and biliterate.
Language learning is more than just memorizing vocabulary. What hands-on approaches make it fun and engaging?
Our Dual Language teachers receive specialized training in linguistic strategies that make language comprehensible for native Spanish speakers, native English speakers and sequential bilingual learners.
One of our key instructional strategies is The Bridge, where teachers intentionally help students transfer skills between languages using visual aids like anchor charts. This method not only strengthens language connections but also builds confidence in bilingual communication.
Do students have opportunities to practice their language skills outside the classroom?
Yes! Many of our secondary schools offer language clubs where students can engage in cultural activities and practice their target language in a fun, social setting.
We also offer foreign exchange programs that allow international students to participate in educational and cultural experiences.
These programs enrich our schools by introducing new cultures, languages and perspectives, fostering greater cultural awareness and global understanding among all students.
How can parents support their child's language learning at home—especially if they don’t speak the language?
Parents play a huge role. Even if they don’t speak the language, they can help by incorporating it into daily life:
📖 Read bilingual books together
🎶 Listen to music in the target language
📺 Watch shows or movies with subtitles
We also partner with schools to provide family engagement opportunities, where parents can learn about language acquisition and best practices for supporting their child.
📌 Great online resources for language learning:
Plaza Sésamo (Spanish Sesame Street)
Atención Atención (Engaging Spanish educational content)
El Mono Sílabo (Spanish literacy resources for young learners)
