The Santa Rosa Elementary Dual Language Immersion program has won a 2026 Golden Bell Award from the Arizona School Boards Association, according to a press release.
The award, in the Pre-K through 8 category, recognizes elementary programs that help students build strong bilingual and biliterate skills. Judges considered student-focused efforts, proven results, educational and leadership success, and collaboration and innovation.
In the Santa Rosa program, students use Spanish in math and science classes and English in language arts and social studies. According to the school district, student performance in the program ranks among the highest in the district, and participants have consistently shown higher proficiency than their peers.
A recent survey found that 94% of respondents said the program supports academic achievement in both languages, while 100% said their children are meeting grade-level expectations in core subjects. Maricopa Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Tracey Lopeman said the recognition belongs to the teachers, students and families who built the program together.
