Westminster School District Celebrates Leadership and Learning at Annual Taviet Conference
August 6, 2026
Westminster School District proudly participated in the annual Taviet Conference this past weekend, joining educators, researchers, school leaders, and community advocates from across California and the nation in advancing the future of Vietnamese Dual Language education.
For decades, Taviet has served as an important organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Vietnamese language, culture, and educational opportunities for Vietnamese-American students and families. Through professional learning, educator development, cultural programming, and community partnerships, Taviet has played a significant role in expanding access to Vietnamese language instruction and supporting the growth of bilingual education programs throughout California and beyond. Westminster School District has been honored to partner with Taviet over the years as both organizations work toward a shared vision of ensuring that students have opportunities to become bilingual, biliterate, and culturally competent global citizens.
The annual conference serves as a gathering place for educators committed to strengthening Vietnamese language instruction and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Vietnamese community. Participants engage in professional learning, share best practices, explore innovative instructional strategies, and collaborate on ways to expand and improve access to Vietnamese Dual Language programs. The conference has become an important forum for advancing bilingual education while celebrating the contributions, traditions, and experiences of Vietnamese-American communities.
Westminster School District was represented throughout the weekend by district leaders, administrators, teachers, families, and community members. District participation included the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Chief Academic Officer, Coordinator of Community Partnerships and Special Projects, principals from Westminster's Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion schools, and the principal of Willmore Elementary. Their presence reflected Westminster's ongoing commitment to supporting high-quality dual language education and ensuring students have access to innovative learning opportunities that prepare them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
As home to one of California's most recognized Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion programs, Westminster School District understands the transformative impact bilingual education can have on student achievement and lifelong success. Dual Language Immersion programs do much more than teach students a second language. They help students develop strong academic skills in two languages, strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, increase cultural awareness, and prepare learners to thrive in diverse communities and workplaces. Westminster's award-winning program provides students with opportunities to become fluent in both English and Vietnamese while mastering grade-level content and developing a deeper understanding of the cultures and communities around them.
The conference also highlighted the critical importance of preserving Vietnamese language and culture for future generations. In a community such as Westminster, where Vietnamese heritage is deeply woven into the fabric of the city, programs like Westminster's Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion pathway help students build meaningful connections to their identities, families, and cultural traditions. At the same time, the program welcomes students from all backgrounds, creating opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and fostering appreciation for the diversity that strengthens our schools and community.
A special highlight of the weekend took place during Saturday evening's Cultural Banquet, where Board Clerk/Trustee Frances Nguyen and Assistant Superintendent Kara Heinrich joined Westminster teachers, parents, and community members in celebrating Vietnamese culture, traditions, and the strong partnerships that continue to enrich the district's schools. The event served as a reminder that successful dual language programs are built not only on excellent instruction, but also on meaningful collaboration among educators, families, and community organizations. Westminster's educators once again demonstrated their commitment to excellence and continuous improvement throughout the conference. More than 20 Westminster Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion teachers participated in professional learning sessions, exploring new instructional strategies and strengthening their expertise in bilingual education. Their willingness to learn, grow, and share ideas reflects the dedication that has helped make Westminster's program a model for others across the state.
The district was especially proud that several Westminster teachers served as conference presenters, leading professional development sessions and sharing their expertise with fellow educators from throughout California and the nation. By presenting at the conference, Westminster educators helped contribute to the broader advancement of Vietnamese Dual Language education while showcasing the innovative practices taking place in Westminster classrooms every day. Their leadership further reinforces the district's reputation as a recognized leader in dual language instruction and a champion for educational excellence.
A particularly meaningful aspect of Westminster's participation was the presence of Board Clerk/Trustee Frances Nguyen, a longstanding advocate for bilingual education and the expansion of Vietnamese Dual Language learning opportunities for students. As a trustee and community leader, Nguyen has consistently championed programs that honor students' cultural heritage while preparing them for success in an increasingly global society. Her support for Westminster's Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion program reflects a deep belief that students should have opportunities to develop proficiency in both English and Vietnamese while maintaining strong connections to their language, culture, and identity. Through her leadership and advocacy, Nguyen has helped advance the district's vision of creating educational opportunities that celebrate diversity, strengthen community partnerships, and empower students to become confident bilingual and biliterate learners.
The conference concluded on Sunday, August 2, with a Closing Ceremony attended by Westminster district leaders, administrators, teachers, families, and community members. During the ceremony, Westminster School District expressed its sincere gratitude to Taviet for its longstanding partnership and continued support of the district's Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion program.
Together, Westminster School District and Taviet remain committed to expanding opportunities that promote bilingualism, biliteracy, academic excellence, and a deep appreciation for Vietnamese language and culture. These shared efforts continue to open doors for students, strengthen connections among families and schools, and ensure that future generations have the skills and cultural understanding necessary to succeed in a multilingual and multicultural society.
That vision is reflected daily in Westminster School District's award-winning Dual Language Immersion program. Designed to help students become fluent in two languages while achieving high levels of academic success, the district's Dual Language Immersion pathways provide students with rigorous instruction in both English and their target language beginning in the early grades and continuing through middle school. Westminster's Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion program allows native English speakers and Vietnamese-speaking English learners to learn together in a classroom environment where instruction is delivered equally in both languages, fostering bilingualism, biliteracy, cross-cultural understanding, and strong academic achievement. Students develop proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in two languages while mastering grade-level standards in core academic subjects.
The program serves as a powerful example of Westminster School District's commitment to preparing students for success in an increasingly connected world. Through the Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion pathway, students gain not only language skills but also a deeper understanding and appreciation of Vietnamese culture and heritage. As they progress through the program, students build the foundation needed to earn Pathway Awards and ultimately pursue the California Seal of Biliteracy, a distinction that recognizes proficiency in multiple languages and opens future academic and career opportunities. Westminster's Dual Language Immersion program, recognized for excellence in dual language instruction and student achievement, continues to serve as a model for bilingual education throughout California.
Learn more about WSD’s Dual Language Immersion program.