We petition HISD to make Pershing Middle school a Spanish dual language school. The benefits of dual language (DL) have been well-documented which include the ability to read, write, and speak fluently in English and Spanish. Studies suggest increased level of critical thinking and cognitive capacity with those students exposed to dual language. Students enrolled in long-term programs experience increased level of academic achievement while obtaining improved cultural awareness and appreciation for our diverse community. HISD currently only has 2 middle schools with dual language programs for grades 6-8, servicing the many elementary DL programs. This lack of availability for middle school DL can lead to language attrition without continued language exposure and therefore loss of its potential benefits. We make this request especially in light of the fact that Pershing directly neighbors Mark Twain Elementary which maintains one of the oldest Spanish DL programs in the district established in 1995. Please consider our request to make Pershing Spanish DL.