How Translanguaging Works in a Dual Language Program

In kindergarten through 5th grade classrooms at Allen Jay Elementary School, students learn subjects like reading, math, and science in English, and in Urdu.

The school, in High Point, N.C., offers dual-language immersion programs in Urdu and Spanish, reflecting the two most commonly spoken world languages in the local community.

Though President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier in 2025 declaring English as the nation’s official language, some experts have pointed to the value of dual-language programs for students’ linguistic and academic development.