Spanish Language Academy

Spanish Language Academy

Exciting News: The Spanish Language Academy is Coming to NPS!

We are thrilled to announce a new and exciting opportunity for our students in the 2025-26 school year—the Spanish Language Academy (SLA)! This program will be available for PreK-5th grade students and will be hosted at Truman Primary (PreK-2nd) and Truman Elementary (3rd-5th).

  • PreK-K: No previous experience or Spanish language proficiency needed to apply for the program.

  • 1st-5th grade:

    • Level 1 Pathway: Student must be transferring from a Spanish language immersion program

    • Level 2 Pathway: 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 prior to finalizing enrollment.

Enrollment is contingent on meeting all NPS requirements. The SLA is voluntary, and transportation may not be provided outside school boundaries, though accommodations may be available for Norman residents with no personal transportation.

Program Goals

  • Develop communicative and academic proficiency in both Spanish and English.

  • Support students in succeeding academically at levels comparable to English-only instruction.

  • Foster understanding and appreciation of other cultures.

Benefits of an Early Start

Research shows starting language learning early leads to:

  • Increased language capacity.

  • Improved listening, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills.

  • Higher proficiency in Spanish over time.

  • Greater awareness of the global community.

Note: Language acquisition is rigorous. The program demands significant cognitive effort, which may lead to frustration. Parents should assess their child’s personality and ability to handle challenges to determine if this program is a good match.

Next Steps for SLA

Eligibility

  • PreK: Must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2025.

  • Kindergarten: Must be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2025.

Application Process

  • Applications for all Norman residents will be available on March 26, 2025.

  • Non-Norman residents can apply but will be considered only after all Norman residents are processed.

  • Deadline for applications: April 11, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

If the number of applicants exceeds available spaces, a random drawing will determine enrollment. If spots remain after the deadline, additional applicants may be considered, space permitting.

A waiting list will be maintained for those not enrolled due to capacity limits.

  • Sibling priority: Siblings are not guaranteed enrollment but will be prioritized for district transfers to the same school site.

Drawing & Enrollment

  • Drawing results will be posted on April 18, 2025. Enrollment lists will be posted by 4:00 p.m. on the NPS website.

  • All enrollment materials must be completed by May 9, 2025, 4:00 p.m. or the student’s spot will be forfeited.

Required Parent Orientation

All guardians of enrolled students must attend a required parent orientation night.

How do I enroll my child in the Spanish Language Academy?

  • Step 1 - Fill out the online Spanish Language Academy placement form (available March 26 - April 11, 2025)

  • Step 2 - Notification of placement April 18, 2025 by 4:00 pm

  • Step 3 - Complete online enrollment May 9, 2025 at 4:00 pm

  • Step 4 - Watch for communication from the School Site

Click here for the step-by-step graphic for enrolling in our Spanish Language Academy at Norman Public Schools.

For any questions, please call our World Language Department at 405-366-0589

FAQ's