Jerome School District Pondering Dual-Language Program

JEROME, Idaho (AP) — A south-central Idaho school district is considering phasing in a dual-language immersion program.

The Times-News reports that no decision has been made, but officials say the earliest a new program could launch is 2016. Jerome School District Superintendent Dale Layne says the program would likely start with one or two classes learning English and Spanish throughout their school years.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 34 percent of Jerome County's population is Hispanic or Latino. Idaho schools don't need state approval for a dual immersion program, but it would need to be passed by the school board. Currently, six Idaho school districts and one public charter school offer dual-language immersion.