Academics · Grades 4–5
Upper elementary is where biliteracy deepens. Students read and write independently in both languages, the classroom balance shifts to an even 50/50, and children begin to lead — the bridge between Bright Minds and middle school.
By 4th grade, students are reading and writing comfortably in Spanish and building real independence in English. Teachers push both languages further — longer texts, more complex writing, and academic vocabulary across math, science, and social studies.
Where the early grades lean heavily on Spanish, Bridge Years shifts to a balanced 50/50 model. Students move fluidly between languages depending on the subject and the day, a balance designed to strengthen both languages rather than let one dominate.
Students in these grades write independently in both languages — journals, research projects, persuasive essays — and take on leadership roles across the school, mentoring younger classmates and helping lead school-wide traditions.
Grade 5 is the bridge into middle school. Students leave ready for the increased independence, elective choices, and biliteracy expectations of grades 6 through 8.
The Path
See what's ahead for students who continue through 8th grade →
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Grades 4–5
The team your child sees every day at this stage.
Middle School Teacher & Advisory Coordinator
Lorena has more than twenty years of teaching experience across three countries, with a Master of Arts in Writing. As Advisory Coordinator, she builds connection and belonging in the upper grades.
Math Teacher
Rafael teaches math across grade levels, emphasizing reasoning and problem-solving over memorization.
K–8th PE Teacher
Alfredo leads physical education from kindergarten through 8th grade, building teamwork, coordination, and joy in movement for every age.
Art Teacher
Shelly runs the art studio, where students explore materials, culture, and self-expression across the year.
Capoeira Teacher
Silvio teaches capoeira, blending music, movement, and Afro-Brazilian tradition into our specials rotation.
The language model
Spanish carries the day when children acquire language most naturally, then English grows year by year until the day is evenly balanced — one continuous model from 12 months through 8th grade.
Bridge Years · 50/50 — The balance arrives: an even 50/50 day, with students moving between languages by subject.
Bridge Years
The language balance shifts to an even 50/50. Students move between Spanish and English by subject, write independently in both, and take on leadership roles across the school.
Yes. Grade 5 is designed as the bridge — students practice the independence, organization, and academic writing that grades 6 through 8 expect.
Our longer school day is intentional so evenings belong to families. Teachers may assign independent reading or brief, meaningful work, but never busywork.
Teachers track both languages separately and adjust support accordingly. Small cohorts make it possible to strengthen a student's weaker language without slowing the stronger one.
Connect with a Current Parent
We'll match you with a current Amistad parent whose child is in Grades 4–5 — no pressure, no sales pitch, just an honest conversation about what these years actually look like.
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