Rafael Rodriguez
Math Teacher
Read bio+
Rafael teaches math across grade levels, emphasizing reasoning and problem-solving over memorization.
Academics · Grades 4–5
Bridge Years
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.
Deepening biliteracy
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.
Toward a 50/50 balance
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.
Independent writers, emerging leaders
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.
Preparing for middle school
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
Why the full path changes everything
See what's ahead for students who continue through 8th grade →
Explore this section
Bridge Years in action
Scroll to see moments from these classrooms.
Grades 4–5
Meet the teachers
The team your child sees every day at this stage.
Alfredo De La Hoz
K–8th PE Teacher
Read bio+
Alfredo leads physical education from kindergarten through 8th grade, building teamwork, coordination, and joy in movement for every age.
Shelly Sibert
Art Teacher
Read bio+
Shelly runs the art studio, where students explore materials, culture, and self-expression across the year.
Silvio Dos Reis
Capoeira Teacher
Read bio+
Silvio teaches capoeira, blending music, movement, and Afro-Brazilian tradition into our specials rotation.
The language model
From 100% Spanish to 50/50
Our dual language immersion program begins with 100% Spanish in the Early Learning Program, giving our youngest learners a strong foundation in the language. Starting in Kindergarten, we introduce English and gradually increase it each year, reaching a balanced 50/50 model by 4th grade.
Bridge Years
Parents FAQ
What changes in 4th and 5th grade?+
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.
Will my child be ready for middle school?+
Yes. Grade 5 is designed as the bridge — students practice the independence, organization, and academic writing that grades 6 through 8 expect.
Is there homework in the Bridge Years?+
Our longer school day is intentional so evenings belong to families. Teachers may assign independent reading or brief, meaningful work, but never busywork.
How do you support students who need more in one language?+
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
Talk with a Bridge Years family
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.
Continue along The Path
Visit Amistad