Dual-Language Programs May Reduce School Segregation

Study finds two-way dual language programs can modestly disrupt the link between residential and school segregation.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new study led by a Penn State researcher found that dual-language programs, which bring native English speakers and students who speak another language at home together in the same classroom, may modestly reduce school segregation. The study analyzed elementary schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District and found that the design of these programs, particularly how students are admitted and whether enrollment extends beyond neighborhood boundaries, plays a meaningful role in shaping who learns together.

Why it matters

Most public schools are still deeply shaped by residential segregation, so the study examines whether voluntary, educationally beneficial strategies like dual-language immersion programs can help loosen that link. Bilingualism is also increasingly viewed as an economic asset, as students who develop fluency in multiple languages may gain advantages in a global workforce.

The details

The researchers analyzed enrollment records for over 221,000 elementary students across 498 neighborhood-based schools in Los Angeles, including 146 dual-language programs spanning 142 schools. They found that schools with dual-language programs tended to be located in neighborhoods with high proportions of Hispanic residents, non-English-speaking households, and low-income families. However, many programs enrolled students from outside their attendance zones, and those out-of-zone students were more economically advantaged and more likely to come from English-only households, modestly increasing the diversity of the programs.

  • The study was published in February 2026.

The players

Erica Frankenberg

A professor of education and of demography, and associate director of the Social Science Research Institute at Penn State College of Education, who led the study.

Los Angeles Unified School District

The school district in which the study was conducted, analyzing enrollment data from over 221,000 elementary students across 498 neighborhood-based schools.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Most public schools are still deeply shaped by residential segregation. The question is whether there are voluntary, educationally beneficial strategies that can help loosen that link. Dual-language immersion is one possibility.”

— Erica Frankenberg, Professor of education and demography (Mirage News)

“Families are often drawn to these programs because of the long-term benefits. There's a recognition that bilingualism can open doors - academically, professionally and socially.”

— Erica Frankenberg, Professor of education and demography (Mirage News)

“If districts want equitable participation, they have to think intentionally about outreach. That includes how information is shared, who feels invited to apply and whether transportation or application requirements create barriers.”

— Erica Frankenberg, Professor of education and demography (Mirage News)

What’s next

The study highlights the importance of program design in determining the outcomes of dual-language programs, and suggests that districts should think intentionally about outreach and accessibility to ensure equitable participation.

The takeaway

Dual-language programs can modestly disrupt the link between residential segregation and school enrollment patterns, but their success in promoting integration depends on factors like how students are admitted and whether enrollment extends beyond neighborhood boundaries. These programs offer educational benefits and can be one piece of a broader strategy to address school segregation.