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 Why Wharton Is Special

Wharton K–8 Dual Language Academy is proud to be a pioneer in dual language education, becoming HISD’s first school-wide Dual Language Magnet in 2000. From Pre-K through 8th grade, all students receive a balanced and integrated curriculum in both English and Spanish, with the goal of developing fluency, literacy, and cultural proficiency in both languages. As an International Spanish Academy (ISA) recognized by the Ministry of Education of Spain, Wharton further enriches students’ learning experiences by hosting a native Spanish language and culture assistant, offering summer seminars in Spain for educators, and awarding official Certificates of Completion from the Spanish government at both the fifth- and eighth-grade levels.

Step‑by‑Step for New Parents

  1. Explore the Academics
    • PK–Grade 5: Follow 80% Spanish / 20% English model in K, inching toward a 50/50 balance by Grade 4.
    • Grades 6–8: Continue rigorous academics with advanced Spanish coursework. Students can earn HS credits—Algebra I plus an optional AP Spanish college credit.
  2. Understand the IB Program
    • Wharton is an authorized IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) school (since 2013).
    • Curriculum focuses on inquiry-based learning, transdisciplinary themes, and IB learner traits like caring, thinkers, and communicators. 
  3. See Our Mission & Culture
    • Mission: Empower respectful, lifelong, bilingual, biliterate inquirers who value diversity and global citizenship.
    • School values (in hallways, classrooms, recess) – caring, principled, communicators, balanced, risk‑takers—reinforcing respectful behavior school‑wide through the Wharton Way. 
  4. Meet the Community & Support
    • Wharton is proudly Gold‑Certified Family Friendly.
    • New families are welcome to join us at our Magnet Tours. 
  5. Enrollment
    • All families (zoned and magnet) should apply via Houston ISD's Office of School Choice magnet application. 
    • Contact the front office at 713‑535‑3771 or visit us at 900 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019.
  6. After You’re Enrolled
    • Attend new family school events such as PK and K Round-Up, Middle School Signing Day, Meet the Teacher and Open House.
    • Learn about bus routes, meals, calendars, and other logistics on our school website.
    •  Join PTO/Families groups, and participate in monthly community events that support bilingual learners.