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Dual Language Program

In a classroom composed of half native English speakers and half native Spanish speakers, with lessons taught in both languages, young learners can develop skills in both to serve them throughout their lives.

Who is eligible?

  • NTPS students entering Kindergarten–6th grade in the fall of 2026.
    • Up to 2nd grade at Pleasant Glade Elementary
    • Up to 3rd grade at Mountain View Elementary
    • Up to 5th grade at Lydia Hawk Elementary
    • 6th-grade science and social studies at Nisqually Middle School (this offering is for students who participated in the Dual Language Program in elementary—families do not need to apply)

Students must commit to staying in the program through 5th grade. If you leave the program before the 5th grade, students must return to their home school. Siblings can attend the Dual Language host school only if they also participate in the program. 

Students entering mid-year or into grades higher than kindergarten must take a placement test.

If you live outside the host school attendance zone, students will need to be transported by their families. Programs will be hosted at Lydia Hawk, Mountain View, and Pleasant Glade Elementary schools and Nisqually Middle School.

How does the program work?

Class sizes are around 24 students (half native-English speakers and half native-Spanish speakers). Teachers provide instruction in both languages. Students will learn both languages through techniques such as pictures, props, facial expressions, gestures, and physical movements. The curriculum follows district guidelines and standards and will cover the same grade-level objectives as general education classrooms.

Ready to apply?

Before applying for the program, please ensure your student is fully registered to attend NTPS.

Program Application

Aplicación del Programa

Families will be notified within 30 days about whether their child will be enrolled in the program. Due to limited space, submitting an application does not guarantee a spot in the program. If the number of applications exceeds capacity, NTPS will maintain a waitlist and contact families in placement order when classroom spots open. Applications received during the school year will be reviewed and/or approved on a case-by-case basis.

If you are accepted into a class at a host school that is not your neighborhood school, you must be willing to self-transport.

Frequently Asked Questions / Preguntas Frecuentes