A new article in the Summer 2025 edition of Momentum, the quarterly publication of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), highlights the groundbreaking work of the Advancing Latino and Multilingual Achievement (ALMA) program in supporting bilingual preschool education in Catholic schools. ALMA is part of the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) at the University of Notre Dame.
The article profiles the Early Childhood Language Intensive Program (ECLIP)—a four-year initiative developed by ALMA and ACE in partnership with the Archdiocese of Chicago. The program has supported 62 early childhood classrooms, equipping young learners—both English and Spanish speakers—with foundational literacy skills in both languages, while also promoting cultural identity, faith integration, and family engagement.
Key Findings:
- Bilingual literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading leads to measurable gains in early literacy across both languages.
- Multilingual preschool environments empower staff—especially Spanish-speaking educators—and promote cultural and spiritual representation in school life.
- Implementing bilingual programs can increase enrollment and build deeper relationships with Latino families, while supporting academic growth and school sustainability.
Researchers noted that bilingual classrooms not only enhance academic development, but also foster spiritual vibrancy and cultural pride across entire school communities. Key strategies include dual-language literacy instruction, faith-based language development, and celebrations of Latin American traditions—all of which contribute to student success and family connection.
Article Contributors:
- Elisa Zwier Dralle, Dual Language Coordinator, Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE)
- Katy Lichon, Director of the ALMA Initiative and Assistant Teaching Professor, ACE Teaching Fellows
- Clare Roach, Associate Learning Director, Robinson Community Learning Center
Read the Full Article in Momentum
This article appears in the Summer 2025 issue of Momentum, which focuses on Hispanic/Latino engagement, data cultures, and the NSBECS. Log in to read the full issue at: www.NCEA.org/Momentum