Spanish Dual Language Immersion Program
The middle school phase of SCUSD's Dual Language Immersion (DLI) pathway builds upon the strong bilingual and biliteracy foundation established at Scott Lane Elementary School, where the district’s DLI journey begins. As students transition to Buchser Middle School, the program continues to nurture and expand the linguistic, academic, and cultural strengths developed during their elementary years.
At Buchser Middle School, DLI students engage in advanced coursework designed to deepen their Spanish language proficiency and strengthen academic literacy in both English and Spanish. Through content-based instruction — such as Spanish language arts, social studies, math, and enrichment courses — students refine their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and apply their bilingual skills across subject areas. Students also have access to enriching extracurricular opportunities, such as joining our award-winning Mariachi ensemble or taking part in leadership and student government. Each year, Buchser Middle School hosts a Mariachi showcase along with Latina Noche, a community event that celebrates and supports all DLI and Latinx students and their families.
The DLI program also promotes cultural understanding, collaboration, and real-world application of language, empowering students to see bilingualism as both a personal asset and a tool for global citizenship. By the end of middle school, students are well-prepared for advanced high school coursework, including pathways leading to the California State Seal of Biliteracy.
Anchored by the strong foundation at Scott Lane Elementary, the Buchser Middle School DLI experience ensures that students continue to grow as confident, capable, and culturally aware bilingual learners — ready to thrive in a global society.
Contact
Justin Ponzio
Buchser Principal
jponzio@scusd.net
(408) 423-3001
Enrollment
Students transitioning from the Scott Lane Elementary School DLI program do not need to enroll at Buchser Middle School — they will be automatically enrolled.
Students transitioning from a DLI program outside of SCUSD will first enroll in Santa Clara Unified School District and then contact the Enrollment Center (408-423-3596, enrollment@scusd.net, or in person at 1840 Benton Street, Room H1, Santa Clara) to request an assessment for placement in the DLI program.
Transitioning to High School
By building strong biliteracy and academic skills, the Buchser Middle School DLI program prepares students to confidently transition into high school, where they continue to refine and apply their advanced bilingual abilities.
In high school, students engage in rigorous Spanish language and literature coursework that strengthens academic proficiency, deepens cultural understanding, and supports their progress toward the California State Seal of Biliteracy. Through advanced classes, collaborative learning, and exposure to diverse Spanish-speaking cultures, students learn to use bilingualism as a powerful tool for communication, scholarship, and leadership. By graduation, they emerge as articulate, culturally competent bilingual young adults ready to excel in college, career, and an interconnected world.
Spanish Advanced Placement (AP) classes and other opportunities are offered at each of SCUSD's comprehensive high schools — MacDonald, Santa Clara, and Wilcox — to support the pathway to the high school State Seal of Biliteracy.