ST. CLOUD -- The popular language immersion programs will not be expanded this year in the St. Cloud Area School District.

The school board discussed the measure at a working session Wednesday night. Board chair Bruce Mohs says the Spanish program at Clearview Elementary in Clearwater will remain at its current size, despite a waiting list to get into the program. He says the board will need to create a long term plan to accommodate the budget, proper staffing levels and space required for any future expansions.

The board is expected to discuss the issue during their retreat this summer. Mohs says the district may also look into other immersion subjects like art and science, technology, engineering and mathematics - also known as STEM.

A recent survey from the district shows a growing interest in immersion programs. A second Chinese program is being offered at Madison Elementary.

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