Critical Period Initiative Celebrates Fourth Cohort of Conroe Isd K-6 Students in Language Immersion

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Critical Period Initiative (CPI) is proud to announce the launch of its fourth cohort of Conroe ISD elementary students participating in its innovative language immersion program. Every week, elementary students engage in guided reading sessions conducted in Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish, an experience that enriches their academic development while cultivating a deeper appreciation of global cultures.

Central to the program’s success is the leadership of local bilingual high school students, who guide the sessions as mentors and role models. By sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm, these older students work tirelessly to inspire the next generation of language learners and leaders.

CPI’s mission is rooted in the belief that the “critical period” of childhood is the best time to spark curiosity and confidence in learning languages. The program aims to enrich students academically while simultaneously building cross-cultural awareness and communication skills.

This year’s cohort reflects the growing momentum of the program. Current Conroe ISD K-6 students are working diligently to master vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural context—demonstrating both discipline and excitement in their studies.

In addition to its work with Conroe ISD, CPI is expanding statewide to reach more communities, including Alief ISD and other districts across Texas. By partnering with schools and volunteers, the initiative continues to create accessible, engaging opportunities for students to develop a love of languages that will benefit them for life.

“Early language exposure opens doors for children,” said Andrew Haynes, Executive Director of CPI. “We’re thrilled to see both the dedication of our current students and the potential for even more impact as we expand across the state.”