Frequently Asked Questions

For more than 30 years, Denver Montclair International School has helped children and their families realize the profound, lifelong benefits that come from a full-immersion, bilingual education. We frequently receive – and welcome – questions about our rigorous curriculum and school community. If you’d like even more information about DMIS and our approach to education, please contact Admissions Coordinator Mieke Bushhouse at mieke@dmischool.com.

What are the advantages of a bilingual education over a monolingual education?

There are so many! Studies show that the younger children are when exposed to a second language, the better their chances of mastering that language with native proficiency. Bilingual children are more creative and flexible problem solvers who consistently demonstrate advanced analysis and comprehension. Their ability to communicate freely in two or more languages gives them much broader perspective and greater insight into the interconnectedness of world cultures. It also provides tremendous educational, professional and life opportunities.

Why immersion?

Full immersion is how we learn our native language. As infants, we’re surrounded by people who speak to us, making it easy for us to learn our first language rapidly. Research studies show that full immersion is the best way to teach young children other languages, too. They are sponges who can absorb language sounds in a contextual and natural way without difficulty. Because English is their dominant language, we sharply limit its use in the classroom. In time, DMIS students fluently think and speak in two or more languages. The critical window for language acquisition is short – it closes before the age of 8 – so it’s important to make the most of it.

Will my child be at a disadvantage if our family does not speak a second language?

No. Approximately 70 percent of our students are from non-native speaking households. It’s also important to note that DMIS strives to enroll families, not just individual students. We strive to create opportunities for parents to learn alongside their children. Many DMIS parents say they, too, have fun learning the foundational basics of a second language.

How can I assist with schoolwork if I do not know another language?

Parents can best support their child by showing an interest in homework and by asking the child to recite or show what he or she learned in the classroom that day. Language teachers assign homework that can be completed without parental assistance. However, if students prefer or need assistance, our faculty is available for tutoring.

Will my child be deficient in English if she or he studies it only a portion of each day?

No. Our curriculum is specifically designed to help students master two or more languages. Numerous studies indicate that bilingual children surpass their monolingual peers on standardized tests. Their advanced comprehension and problem-solving skills help them not only in English, but across all subjects, including math and science.

Why does DMIS offer French, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish?

French is spoken by more than 250 million people around the world and is an official language of many international organizations, including NATO, the European Union, the United Nations and the European Council. It is the world’s second most influential language, following English.

More than 1 billion people speak Mandarin, the official Chinese dialect of China and Taiwan and an official language of the United Nations. Economic ties between China and the United States are growing rapidly. Those who have knowledge of Mandarin — as well as Chinese culture, values and history — will be able to contribute to the United States’ economic, political, cultural and social well-being.

More than 28 million people in the United States speak Spanish, making it the second most widely used language in the nation. Worldwide, more than 417 million people speak Spanish. It is the official language of 22 countries, and it is an official working language of the European Union and the United Nations.

Is DMIS accredited?

Yes. DMIS is fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education and the Education Department of Ghanzhou, China. Our Spanish program has earned the highest level of recognition from the Spanish Ministry of Education. Our English program adheres to Colorado state standards.