FAQs

What is language immersion?

Language immersion is an educational model that integrates native English speakers and educators specializing in a target language in the same classroom. The focus of language immersion programs is to help students become proficient in a target language while mastering subject content from other disciplines. In immersion programs language is not taught as a subject; it is the medium in which core instruction is delivered. 

At CRIS, core STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) subjects are taught to students through both English and the target languages (Spanish, French, and Chinese).  As students and teachers work together to perform academic tasks, the students' language abilities are developed, along with their knowledge of content area subject matter. 

What is the best age to start a language immersion program?

Many experts agree that the younger a child starts learning a new language, the better. A recent Harvard study found that children aged between 0-3 mainly learn through hearing sounds and during this stage of development, and are better prepared for language development. At CRIS, language immersion begins as early as 6 weeks old.

The power to learn language is so great in the young child that it doesn’t seem to matter how many languages you throw their way. They can learn as many spoken languages as you allow them to hear systematically and regularly.
- Learning Languages, Winter 1996

How can my child benefit from language immersion?

Language immersion education develops children who are better prepared for….well, almost everything in life. Studies show that immersion education students outperform students in traditional language classes, do as well as or better than non-immersion students on standardized tests, and have a greater appreciation of cultural diversity.

Additionally, research shows early exposure to a second language enables more neural connections to form in a child’s brain, actually improving language skills in the first language.

Other benefits of language immersion:

Languages are for life and they can’t be taken away once you have learned them. By helping your child and continuing to help her, you’ll have a lasting contribution to her quality of life and understanding of others and their culture.
- Hodder and Stoughton Educational, 1994

Does my child have to speak another language to be accepted into CRIS?

Children are not required to speak Spanish or French to enroll in ELIS or preschool. Students applying to Kindergarten through 6th grade are evaluated for language proficiency as part of the CRIS admissions process.

What are CRIS' school hours?

School Schedule:

Beforecare (included with ELIS): 6:30am
Carpool: 8:00am
School Begins: 8:30am
School Ends: 3:30pm
Carpool: Ends at 4:00pm
Aftercare (included with ELIS): 3:30-6:30pm

What supplies are needed for my child's first day of school?

School supply lists can be found in our CRIS Student Welcome Packet.

What is the CRIS uniform policy?

Uniforms are encouraged for all students and required for our students beginning at pre K-3. Uniforms can be purchased and embroidered with the official CRIS logo at Uniform Mart (9535 Airline Highway). 


Girls Uniform Options


Boys Uniform Options