Clear Creek ISD's Estrellas Program is a joint effort between McWhirter Elementary School and the University of Houston-Clear Lake.

The program offers two-way language immersion (also referred to as dual language program) and is an educational model in which both native English speakers and native Spanish speakers receive instruction together in both languages. The courses promote second language acquisition, high academic achievement and cross-cultural understanding for all students.

• Bilingualism

• Flexible thinking develops

• Intellectual growth

• Future marketability increased

• Increase in self esteem

• Development of language and cognitive skills

• Listening skills increase

• Interpersonal communication enhanced

• Appreciation for other languages and cultures

• Enhances empathy and social relations

• Better performance on standardized tests compared to peers (2002 Collier-Thomas study)

• Perfect enrichment opportunity for children with high verbal ability