We, the undersigned parents, guardians, and community members, respectfully call on the GUSD School Board to reinstate the Dual Language Immersion Program at Sutherland Elementary School.

The recent decision to eliminate this program due to “lack of interest” does not reflect the reality on the ground. Our community, both current families and those considering enrollment, deeply values this program as an irreplaceable opportunity that supports academic achievement, bridges cultures, and prepares all students for a multilingual world.

As the GUSD website specifically states: 

“Dual language learning offers powerful benefits—students strengthen problem-solving skills, gain confidence communicating in two languages, and grow as learners in an inclusive classroom community. We believe bilingualism is a gift, and DLI is one meaningful way we support students in becoming globally ready.”

We believe the reported “lack of interest” reflects a failure to adequately survey our community, not an absence of need. This petition is proof of that interest.

WE CALL ON THE GUSD SCHOOL BOARD TO:

1. Reinstate the Dual Language Immersion Program for the upcoming school year.
2. Conduct a proper community needs assessment before making any further cuts.
3.  Establish a bilingual family advisory committee to ensure ongoing community input.
4. Develop a long-term plan to sustain and grow the program with adequate staffing and resources.