Coldwell Elementary School students can choose to pledge allegiance in Spanish

In its fourth year offering students a dual lingual education, the Coldwell Elementary School is allowing students to say the Pledge of Allegiance in Spanish or English.

According to Coldwell student councilor, Sabrina Aguilar, the program splits the school day in half, between classes taught exclusively in English and Spanish.

Aguilar said that Tuesday students were allowed to call upon the duality of their education when reciting the pledge.

“When a teacher can explain to (a native Spanish-speaking students) in their own language what they’re pledging to, doesn’t that give them ownership — ownership to the United States of America? I’m pledging allegiance to you, and I’m understanding what I’m pledging,” said Aguilar.

Sandra Espinzoa said she enrolled her 8-year-old daughter in Coldwell’s dual lingual program as soon as she could.

“For any student, speaking multiple languages is a plus, its not a deficit,” said Espinoza.

According to Aguilar, students can only opt to say the pledge in Spanish on Tuesdays and Thursdays.