Early Elementary
Bilingual Enrichment Program
Spanish-language enrichment rooted in faith, culture, and joyful learning.
3 Afternoons Per Week
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
Faith-Filled Learning
Prayer, Catholic values,
and faith vocabulary.
Strong English Academics
Core instruction remains
in English.
Cultural Awareness
Students grow in hospitality and understanding.
What is the Program?
A Joyful Introduction to Spanish Language and Culture
St. Joan of Arc Parish School is excited to announce an Early Elementary Bilingual Enrichment Program for the 2026–2027 school year. This program offers structured Spanish-language enrichment three afternoons each week while preserving our strong English-based academic curriculum and Catholic identity.
The Early Elementary Bilingual Enrichment Program provides students with intentional Spanish-language exposure through conversation, storytelling, music, centers, prayer, art, and hands-on activities.
This enrichment program complements the current early elementary experience and helps students build confidence, communication skills, and cultural awareness.
Program Schedule
Days: Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday Afternoons
School Year: 2026–2027
Who May Participate?
Any current or incoming 4K and Kindergarten student may opt into the program.
Current 1st- and 2nd-grade students may also participate if their families choose to do so and space and staffing allow.
Family Choice
Families may choose whether their child participates in the Spanish-language enrichment sessions.
Students who do not participate will remain with their teacher for English-language enrichment activities, literacy support, centers, and individualized learning.
Conversational Spanish
Students are introduced to everyday Spanish words and phrases in a natural, age-appropriate way.
Songs & Storytelling
Music and stories help students hear, repeat, and enjoy the Spanish language.
Centers & Play-Based Learning
Students learn through movement, play, exploration, and hands-on activities.
Art & Creative Activities
Spanish vocabulary is woven into art, projects, and classroom experiences.
Faith-Based Vocabulary & Prayer
Students experience prayer, Catholic traditions, and faith vocabulary in Spanish.
Cultural Experiences
Students learn about traditions, celebrations, and the beauty of different cultures.
Communication Skills
Students build confidence in hearing and using another language.
Listening & Literacy Development
Language exposure supports growth in listening, vocabulary, and early literacy.
Cognitive Flexibility
Students strengthen memory, problem-solving, and flexible thinking skills.
Cultural Awareness
Students develop empathy, understanding, and appreciation for others.
Confidence Building
Students learn language in a joyful, low-pressure environment.
Academic
Integrity
Strong English Instruction Remains at the Center
All core instruction, including reading, phonics, handwriting, writing, math, and foundational academic skills, will continue to be delivered in English during the morning instructional block.
The bilingual enrichment program enhances the afternoon portion of the day, which already emphasizes centers, movement, creative play, social learning, and exploration.
Rooted in Our Catholic Mission
Rooted in Faith. Open to the World.
This program supports St. Joan of Arc’s Catholic mission by helping students understand the Church’s universal nature across languages, cultures, and communities.
Catholic means “universal.” Through this program, students practice hospitality, build relationships, and deepen their appreciation for people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, all while remaining rooted in Catholic teachings, traditions, prayer, and values.
Why SJOA?
A Small School with Big Opportunities
At St. Joan of Arc Parish School, students receive support through strong relationships, small class sizes, faith-filled learning, and individualized attention.
The Early Elementary Bilingual Enrichment Program strengthens our mission by offering families an innovative opportunity in a welcoming Catholic school community.
Will my child still receive English instruction?
Yes. Core academic instruction remains in English, including reading, phonics, writing, handwriting, math, and foundational skills.
Does my child need to know Spanish already?
No. The program is designed for young learners and emphasizes exposure, participation, and confidence-building.
Is this a full-immersion program?
No. This is a bilingual enrichment program that offers structured Spanish-language exposure during selected afternoon blocks.
Can families choose whether to participate?
Yes. Families may choose whether their child participates in the Spanish-language enrichment afternoons.
What happens if my child does not participate?
Students who do not participate will remain with their teacher for English-language enrichment, literacy support, centers, and individualized learning.
How is faith included?
Students will encounter faith-based vocabulary, prayer, Catholic traditions, and cultural connections in age-appropriate ways.
