Our Dual Language Academy Opens Fall 2019

Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools is pleased to announce the start of our Dual Language Academy — where students will learn to read, write and speak in Spanish! Opening this fall with preschool and kindergarten, it will be centrally located in Sioux City at the Heelan CYO. All children from the tri-state area are welcome to enroll.

The curriculum will focus on four pillars of achievement: • Biliteracy in Spanish and English • Strong Catholic values • Academic excellence • Cultural awareness 
Education studies show that students who know two languages enjoy stronger academic success, a more stimulating school experience and growing future opportunities. The Heelan School System plans to expand the academy by adding classrooms for grades 1-5 in the Epiphany Center. 

Research shows that bilingual students:
•  Can better multitask 
•  Have a longer attention span
•  Adapt better to changes in an environment
•  Develop a positive global awareness
•  Enjoy more opportunities in college and careers

Boston College Partnership
The new BHCS academy is offered in partnership with Boston College and its Two-Way Immersion Network for Catholic Schools. The program is grounded in research with leadership of Boston College faculty and other education experts to support Catholic school classrooms around the country. Learn more of their program at this website www.twins-cs.org

Our Bilingual Teachers
Preschool will be taught by Mayra Padilla, a graduate of Briar Cliff University. Her students will receive instruction in 90% Spanish.

Kindergarten will be taught by Antonia Maria Carreño, coming to us from Spain with 25 years of teaching experience. Her students will receive instruction in 80% Spanish. Learn more about our staff.

Learn more by contacting: 
Kate Connealy 712-233-1624
kate.connealy@bishopheelan.org

Juanita Garcia 712-301-7500 in Spanish 
juanita.garcia@bishopheelan.org