Give your child the advantage of becoming bilingual in English and Spanish with Downey Unified’s Global Language Academies of Downey (G.L.A.D.). The dual language immersion program teaches students to think, read, write, and communicate in both languages while diving into their standard grade-level curriculum.
G.L.A.D. is available at select schools in the district:
- Carpenter: TK – 5th
- Garcia: TK – 3rd
- Old River: 4th – 5th
- Unsworth: TK – 2nd
- Ward: TK – Kindergarten
- Williams: TK – 3rd
Students do not need any background in a secondary language to apply for TK and Kindergarten. Applications are also accepted for grades 1 and above at Carpenter, Garcia and Williams elementary schools. However, students applying for these grade levels must have some background in Spanish, and while all applications will be considered, please be aware that space is limited.
Online Application Window
The 2027-2028 registration window is open now through January 31, 2027. The online application will be available on the G.L.A.D. website.
New This Year: Our application process has been updated for this coming year. Since it’s a new process, please be patient as we also navigate the revamped system. If you have any trouble with the application, please email Yajaira Magallon at ymagallon@dusd.net.
Parent Information Meetings
If you’re applying to the program (or just interested in learning more), parents must attend one virtual Parent Information Meeting via Teams. There are multiple dates to choose from for your convenience. Translation will be available.
The Information Meetings will be held at 5:30 p.m. on the following days:
- November 19
- December 3
- December 10
- January 7
- January 14
- January 21
The Benefits of Dual Language
On the fence about the program? Discover the many benefits of being bilingual in today’s world.
- Develop higher-level reasoning skills (helpful for critical thinking)
- More interest in and respect for other cultures
- Increased mental flexibility
- Stronger self-esteem
- And much, much more!