By Vanessa Sussmann, Co-Spanish Immersion Coordinator

On October 3, 2025 the Ninth and Tenth Grade students from the Spanish Immersion program at Kalamazoo Christian High School (KCHS) had the opportunity to visit Western Michigan University (WMU) to receive their official Bronco ID cards. This visit was more than just a step toward college readiness, it was a celebration of language, identity and purpose.

Students experienced a bit of campus life as they walked through the grounds, picked up their IDs and visited the bookstore. For these students, the deeper significance of being part of something bigger came from a simple visit. Receiving their Bronco ID cards symbolized their enrollment in WMU’s dual language program, a powerful partnership that allows them to earn college credit while continuing their immersion in the Spanish language.

This collaboration between WMU and KCHS is a reflection of a shared commitment to bilingual education. It’s not just about learning another language, it’s about strengthening biliteracy, building cultural awareness and fostering meaningful connections that span communities and borders.

Bilingualism is also a calling. Speaking Spanish allows these students to connect with others in both their local community and across the world, sharing God’s love in two languages. Language is not just a tool, but a gift, one that can be used to uplift others, break down barriers and embody the empathy and compassion that Jesus modeled for us.

By investing in their learning and serving bilingually, these students are making the world a more understanding, inclusive and Christ-centered place. In a world often divided by difference, their journey is a testament to the unifying power of language and the enduring relevance of Christ’s example.