Language Programs

​The Spanish Bilingual Program provides students with the opportunity to acquire the basic skills for spe​aking, reading, writing, listening and communicating in both English and Spanish at a young age. It is a program in which Spanish and English are used as the languages of instruction, beginning in Kindergarten or Grade 1 and continuing to Grade 12.

Who Can Register

• Children entering kindergarten or Grade 1 can register. 

• Previous Spanish experience is not required and parents do not need to know the language.

• Students with previous Spanish language experience may start the Spanish Bilingual program at other grade levels. In the case of an alternate entry point, parents will reach out to the school directly to arrange an appointment for language assessment for suitable placement.

Benefits of Learning Spanish

• Expands the intellect

• Teaches responsible citizenship

• Develops enhanced feelings of self-esteem and pride in having acquired an additional language

• Strengthens English literacy skills

• Encourages the joy of lifelong learning

• Promotes exploration, understanding and appreciation of the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world and contributes to multilingualism and multiculturalism

• Allows students to compete internationally

• Provides students with more choices for advanced education and career options

• Broadens students' cultural life through access to literature, art, music and theatre in another language

Benefits of Spanish Bilingual Program

• In elementary, a 50/50 split in instructional time between English and Spanish allows students to build fluency in both languages. Children learn to understand and respond appropriately in Spanish in a range of everyday situations.

Languages of Instruction

From K to 6:

• Spanish Language Arts and Math are taught in Spanish
• English Language Arts is taught in English
• Other subjects are taught in English or Spanish or bilingually as determined by schools

From 7 to 9:

• Spanish Language Arts and Math are taught in Spanish
• English Language Arts is taught in English
• Other subjects are taught in English or Spanish or bilingually as determined by schools

From 10 to 12:

• Spanish Language Arts is taught in Spanish
• Other subjects are taught in English or Spanish as determined by schools

Find a School

Every child in Calgary has a designated school based on their home address and the program they choose.

Find your designated school with our find a school tool along with the school's contact information and website address. Be sure to use the drop down arrow for 'Program Options' to select Spanish Bilingual'.​​​