Pasadena Unified will offer a new Armenian dual language immersion program for high school students in the 2020-2021 school year, according to a news release from the district.

Dual immersion programs aim for biliteracy by immersing students in both languages as they’re taught multiple subjects. Proponents say Pasadena Unified’s offering of Armenian is the first for that language in the United States.

April 6 marks the start of registration for the program, which will be offered at the Blair School , where the district houses its International Baccalaureate classes.

The program will offer four levels of Armenian language classes, subject to minimum student enrollment. As it expands, the district plans to offer courses in Armenian literature, history and culture.

It will be limited to 250 students in its first year, the Friday news release says, and if it does not meet enrollment projections, the course offerings are subject to change.

The district currently offers similar dual language immersion programs in French, Mandarin and Spanish. 

“I am thrilled with the Pasadena Unified School District’s vote of approval to establish an Armenian Dual Language Immersion program at Blair School, the first of its kind in the U.S.” said Arsine Shirvanian, a community member who advocated for the program.

A welcoming event and program will be planned when schools are able to reopen, once the coronavirus crisis is resolved.