King-Chavez Neighborhood of Schools Home

Two elementary students read a book together

Our Dual Language Approach

Speaking multiple languages has been proven to enhance memory, concentration, problem-solving, critical-thinking, and multitasking skills. It helps build cross-cultural understanding, self-esteem, and positive attitudes toward global languages and cultures – and it broadens our students’ understanding of the global society we live in today.

Those are just a few of many great reasons why King-Chavez Neighborhood of Schools launched our Dual Language Program in 2019. The program consists of 50 percent of the day taught completely in Spanish and the other half taught in English to promote proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in both languages.

As of the 2023-2024 school year, all TK-3rd grade students at Primary Academy, TK-2nd grade students at Academy of Excellence, and 4th grade students at Arts & Athletics Academy participate in the Dual Language Program. The program will expand by one grade level each subsequent year with the goal that all King-Chavez TK-5th grade students fully participate in dual language immersion by the 2026-2027 school year. While the program continues to roll out, grades that do not currently participate in the Dual Language Program engage in Spanish classes twice each week.

Teachers work at each student’s individual pace to ensure they are grasping the concepts being taught as they progress throughout the year. Additionally, teachers work closely with students whose primary language at home is something other than English to become proficient in the English language – and, in doing so, achieve ELPAC Reclassification status. The program’s goal is to have all students earn a CA State Seal of Biliteracy by the end of high school, which is recognized as a statement of accomplishment by college admissions and employers.

92% Attendance Rate
100% Schools that Implement Dynamic Mindfulness and Embedded Mental Health Supports
50+ Partners that Support our Community Schools Model
1,415 Hours of Free Expanded Learning Opportunities Per Year (before/after school & during breaks)
100% Students who Participate in the Dual Language Program or Foreign Language Program

High school seniors at graduation wearing caps and gowns

About Us

Welcome to King-Chavez Neighborhood of Schools! At KCNS, our school community is our family. Empowering the community since 2000, King-Chavez proudly serves TK to 12th grade students across five schools within the city of San Diego. Our dual language approach to academics, arts, and athletics puts student support and high expectations at the forefront of all we do. Our teachers and support staff personally invest in every student at every school and we maintain small class sizes to ensure that no student is overlooked. Our students learn to be strong leaders equipped with 21st century skills and, in the spirit of our namesake, ready to become movers in their community!

Our unique approach to learning includes:

- Dual language immersion and pathways to achieve the CA State Seal of Biliteracy
- Embedded mental health supports and daily dynamic mindfulness practice
- Customized partnerships through our Community School model that support the whole child
- Free Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO), including competitive athletic programs, after-school clubs, before and after school programs, and academic/enrichment programs during school breaks
- Free field trips throughout the year
- Financial support and counseling for King-Chavez Alumni

We invite you to join us in our mission as we seek excellence in academics, arts, and athletics from the foundation of love!