Recently promoted from Rancho del Rey Middle School in Chula Vista, Haley Cromer, 13, gave a bilingual commencement speech for her eighth grade promotion.
Haley has been taking half of her classes in Spanish and half in English since kindergarten.
“My speech was to be about the time I spent in middle school, I also explained the dual language program in both languages,” said Cromer.
Students in the dual language program not only developed fluency in two languages, but are prepared to begin taking Advanced Placement classes in ninth grade as soon as they enter high school.
“I will be attending Eastlake. I’m excited and I think I’ll make friends quick, but it’s kind of scary because of the program, I’ve been with the same classmates since kindergarten; it’s the first time I’ll be away from them,” said Cromer.
Haley is one of the three students who spoke at the promotion ceremony; the other speakers are Robert Lechner and Shania Anderson.
“Haley really didn’t have a say in it, but me and her dad heard about the program and thought it would be great,” said Yvonne Cromer, Haley’s mom. “We loved the program, we encourage other families to join. I’ve noticed with the kids that they are excited to learn another culture, it’s an interest in language, so much more than just learning a second language.”
The eighth grade promotion took place June 1.
