The Spanish Language Academy will offer an entry-level PreK class in August 2026. Classes in Kindergarten-2nd grade may have availability for new student placement. Placement in those grade levels is dependent on a required language screening.
This is a full-day program and is hosted at Truman Primary (PreK-2nd). Each year, the next grade will be added until the 5th grade is reached.
Program Goals
to develop communicative and academic proficiency in Spanish and in English
to help students succeed academically in all subject areas at levels comparable to those they would have reached if they had been instructed only in English
to develop understanding and appreciation of other cultures
Benefits of an Early Start
Research has shown numerous benefits for beginning the language learning process at a young age.
increased language capacity
improved listening skills
stronger problem-solving and creative thinking skills
high level of language proficiency when same language is pursued for a number of years
enhanced awareness of the global community
Please note that acquiring a new language is rigorous. Students are expected to learn new concepts in an unfamiliar language. The demands on cognitive and processing skills are high and can lead to frustration. Parents should consider their child’s personality and ability to deal with challenges to determine if the program is a good match for their child.
The Spanish Language Academy will feature teachers who are certified in Early Childhood or Elementary Education. PreK classes will be formed when 10 students have confirmed enrollment and will not exceed 20 students. K-1st grade will not exceed 25 students, and 2nd grade will not exceed 26 students per class.
The Spanish Language Academy curriculum will reflect the curriculum resources utilized in all NPS classrooms. Students will build fluency and comprehension in Spanish through daily instruction and interaction in both Spanish and English. Spanish will be utilized as the vehicle for content learning rather than the focus of instruction. PreK - 2nd grade will receive all reading and language arts instruction in English. Supplemental language curriculum and resources will be provided and utilized as needed.
Norman Public Schools Spanish Language Academy is a voluntary program and TRANSPORTATION MAY NOT BE PROVIDED if the child resides outside the school boundaries. However, the district will accommodate Norman residents when possible if personal transportation is not available. Enrollment will not be accepted unless all enrollment requirements for Norman Public Schools are met.
Next Steps to Request Enrollment in the NPS Spanish Language Academy: Kindergarten - 2nd Grade:
Eligibility Requirements are as follows:
Kindergarten: Student must be five (5) on or before September 1, 2026.
1st grade: Student must have completed Kindergarten.
Enrollment request forms for the NPS Spanish Language Academy will be available for ALL Norman residents on February 24, 2026. Each student wanting to participate in the program must have a request on file. If the student does NOT live in the Norman district, they may complete an enrollment request, but will only be considered after all Norman residents have been processed.
The enrollment request forms are accepted until 4:00 p.m. on March 31, 2026.
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade:
Student must demonstrate language proficiency in Spanish (and possibly in English) at a level that supports success in meeting grade level academic expectations. An in-person screening will be required.
IF THE NUMBER OF APPROVED APPLICANTS EXCEEDS THE NUMBER OF PLACES AVAILABLE FOR ENROLLMENT AT THE NPS SPANISH LANGUAGE ACADEMY, A DRAWING WILL TAKE PLACE TO DETERMINE ENROLLMENT STATUS. NORMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CLOSE ENROLLMENT AND PLACE THE REMAINING APPLICANTS ON A WAITING LIST.
IF THERE ARE SPACES AVAILABLE FOLLOWING THE DEADLINE OF 4:00 P.M. MARCH 31, 2026. ADDITIONAL APPLICANTS MAY REQUEST TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM WHERE SPACE ALLOWS.
A WAITING LIST WILL BE MAINTAINED BY THE DISTRICT FOR ANY APPLICANTS WHO WERE NOT ABLE TO ENROLL DUE TO LIMITED CAPACITY. SIBLINGS ARE NOT GUARANTEED A SPOT IN THE SPANISH LANGUAGE ACADEMY. HOWEVER, IF SIBLINGS ARE NOT ABLE TO ENROLL IN THE LANGUAGE ACADEMY, THEY WILL BE GIVEN PREFERENCE FOR DISTRICT TRANSFERS TO THE SAME SCHOOL SITE.
All enrollment materials must be completed and submitted online by 4:00 p.m. on April 24, 2026 or the student’s place will be forfeited.
