Two-Way dual language School at the Sixth Avenue Site! Applications for Pre-K, K, and 1 will take place this fall starting November 3! Keep an eye out on this website. For more information contact Principal Anabel Rafoul or Director of Magnet Schools Jessica Brown.
Two-Way Dual Language is a type of dual language program that enrolls an approximately even number of students from different language backgrounds that learn content in two languages.Â
The APS Two-Way K-5 Dual Language School will provide instruction in Spanish and English and serve the following students:
Spanish Speakers
English Speakers
Speakers of other languages
What does it look like?
In a Two-Way Dual Language (DL) Program, academic content is taught in both English and another language. Our school will offer Spanish as the target language.
The program is fully aligned to Student Learning Standards and is designed so that students learn academic content and skills through the target language, thereby acquiring a high level of communicative and academic proficiency in both English and Spanish.
Rationale and Research
There is a great deal of research (Thomas & Collier, 2017) that supports dual language programs. These programs help students acquire high levels of language proficiency,  typically develop greater cognitive ability, and enhance understanding of their primary language. Dual language programs also provide students with a deeper understanding of other cultures which fosters positive cross-cultural relationships and reduce prejudice. On average, students who participate in dual language programs perform as well as or better than non dual language students on standardized tests of English and math administered in English.
Where is the Two-Way K-5 Dual Language (DL) program located?
The program will be located at the 6th avenue site
Who can participate?
Any APS student who is entering Pre-School, K, or 1st grade in August, 2026 is able to apply. Transportation will be provided. More information will be shared in November, 2025.
What if my child doesn’t speak any Spanish?
We aim to create classes that include a robust blend of new language learners and students who already speak Spanish in the Pre-K, K, and 1st grades. Each class will include 50% of native Spanish speakers and 50% of English or another language. So, no introduction to Spanish is necessary. Parents must complete the magnet school application and a lottery will be run.Â
What is the size of the DL program?
The first year goal is to have 48 Pre-K students (50% Spanish speakers); 66 students in Kindergarten (50% Spanish speakers), and 66 students in first grade(50% Spanish speakers). We will grow a grade a year until reaching 5th grade. These students continues together through 5th grade.
What does the DL program look like?
DL program in the younger grades includes students learning in Spanish 90% of the day in Spanish and 10% in English. The DL Spanish teacher teaches math, science, social studies, and ELA primarily in Spanish. Academic content is reinforced throughout the day (90% in Spanish and 10% in English).