Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) Program
Helping Students Thrive in a Spanish-Speaking School
At Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, we understand that transitioning to a new language and culture can be both exciting and challenging.
Our Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) Program is designed to help students whose first language is English develop the confidence and language skills they need to succeed academically, build meaningful friendships, and fully participate in school life.
Through personalized instruction, language immersion, and ongoing support, students become active members of our Jesuit community while developing fluency in Spanish.
Why Choose Colegio San Ignacio?
Although Spanish is the primary language of instruction, our bilingual academic environment provides an excellent opportunity for English-speaking students to become fluent in both languages.
Students benefit from:
- A personalized language support program.
- Small-group instruction and individualized attention.
- A full Spanish-speaking school environment that accelerates language acquisition.
- English-language textbooks and instructional materials in Mathematics and Science.
- A welcoming community that supports each student's academic and personal growth.
By graduation, our students are confident communicators in both English and Spanish—an invaluable advantage for college and beyond.
How the Program Works
Our program provides support before school begins and continues throughout the student's first year.
Summer Language Immersion
June • Monday through Friday • 90 minutes daily
Before the school year begins, students participate in a four-week immersion experience designed to strengthen their Spanish skills and ease their transition into CSI.
The program begins with a diagnostic assessment to identify each student's individual learning needs.
Areas of focus include:
- Vocabulary Development
- Grammar and Spelling
- Reading Comprehension
- Listening Skills
- Oral Communication
- Written Expression
Academic Year Support
Language development continues throughout the school year with personalized academic support.
After-School Tutoring
Small-group tutoring sessions reinforce classroom learning while helping students build confidence using Spanish in academic settings.
Language Lab
Students use digital learning platforms with personalized objectives to strengthen listening comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, and overall language proficiency.
A Learning Environment Designed for Success
Learning Spanish at CSI goes far beyond the classroom.
Every day, students practice the language while interacting with classmates, participating in athletics, clubs, service opportunities, and the many activities that make up daily life at Colegio San Ignacio.
This full immersion experience allows students to make rapid progress while becoming fully integrated into our school community.
What Our Students Say
"Being immersed in a Spanish-speaking school, together with the support of my teachers, helped me learn Spanish much faster than I ever expected."
Another student shared:
"I learned more Spanish during my first year at CSI than I had learned in six years of elementary school."
These experiences reflect the supportive environment and personalized attention that define our SSL Program.
Is This Program Right for My Son?
The SSL Program is intended for students entering 7th or 8th Grade whose primary language is English and who would benefit from additional Spanish language support as they transition to a fully Spanish-speaking academic environment.
Learn More
If you have questions about the Spanish as a Second Language Program or the admissions process, we would be happy to assist your family.
Gretchen Philippi
Director of Admissions & Marketing
📞 787-522-0323
Schedule a Campus Visit