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UC Merced's Spanish Immersion Program begins June 16th

May 6, 2003

MERCED, CA — The University of California, Merced will offer its second annual Spanish Immersion Program in Fresno this summer for young students from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily, from June 16 through August 1, 2003.

Children do not need to know Spanish to enroll; both native Spanish speakers and English-only children are welcome. The program's goal is to introduce the language through drama, music, art, stories and games. A fully credentialed Spanish immersion teacher will provide innovative, all-Spanish instruction to children in kindergarten through second grade. Educational benefits of early language instruction include improved school performance, problem-solving skills and creativity.

Interested parents can enroll their children between by contacting Helen Sullivan, Director of the Division of Professional Studies, at (559) 241-7414. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and space is limited. Early enrollment is encouraged. The program will be held at Bullard Talent School. The cost is $450 per student for the 7-week program.

UC Merced, the 10th campus of the University of California system, is the first major research university to be built in the United States in the 21st century. Currently employing approximately 110 educators and professionals, UC Merced has a special mission to serve the educational needs of the San Joaquin Valley. The University's main campus in Merced is scheduled to open in 2004 to serve 1,000 students. Over the coming decades, the campus is expected to grow to a student population of 25,000. UC Merced contributes to educational access through the entire San Joaquin region via educational and outreach centers in Fresno and Bakersfield, and the Tri-College Center in Merced.