School Profile
School Profile:
The Spanish Bilingual program opened its doors in 2012, when it was located at G.H. Dawe School, with the first ECS class. In September 2014, the program moved to its own location at Escuela Pines School with classes in ECS, Grade 1 and 2. Every year, a new grade was added. To accommodate growth of this program, in September 2017 the program moved to Escuela Vista Grande with classes now up to Grade 8. The School Board is very committed to the program, and the enrolment growth is amazing every year!
This year, we will have a student population of approximately 270 students. Escuela Vista Grande is committed to surrounding its students with a high level of Spanish language and culture. Most of our staff, from our EAs, secretary and teaching staff is able to communicate in Spanish and they represent a variety of cultures. Escuela Vista Grande is an International Spanish Academy (ISA) and the goal of ISA is to offer students a high quality dual language instruction that will prepare them to be responsible citizens in a globalized world.
Escuela Vista Grande is a UNESCO associated school. The UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) connects more than 12,000 schools in 182 countries around a common goal to build peace in the minds of children and young people. Through concrete actions member schools promote the ideals of UNESCO valuing rights and dignity, gender equality, social progress, freedom, justice and democracy, respect for diversity and international solidarity. The Network operates at international and national levels with three clear priorities: education for sustainable development, global citizenship education and inter-cultural and heritage learning.
Despite still being a small school, the language and culture are thriving. The feeling of community makes everyone feel very welcomed at our school. We receive an amazing level of parent support, ranging from the School Council, fundraising group, hot lunch program, and much more.
Escuela Vista Grande is a school of choice, and any student residing in the City of SMµ÷½ÌÉçÇø may apply to join our program. Students living outside of the city are considered when room and resources are available.
We look forward to the year ahead, and the staff renews its commitment to offering the highest level of education in a safe and caring environment.
