Choosing a kindergarten is a meaningful decision for families. You’re not just selecting a school—you’re choosing a learning environment where your child will grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Why Families Choose Us

Columbus Bilingual Central is a tuition-free public charter school offering a high-quality bilingual education rooted in a strong, supportive learning culture. From the first day of kindergarten, students are encouraged to be curious, confident, and engaged—while learning in two languages.

Families choose us because we offer:

· Tuition-free kindergarten education

· A bilingual / dual-language learning model

· Safe, welcoming classrooms

· A positive learning culture built on respect, belonging, and high expectations

· Hands-on, play-based learning experiences

· Strong partnerships between students, families, and educators

Our School Culture

We believe learning thrives in a culture where children feel safe, valued, and inspired. Our kindergarten classrooms are designed to nurture curiosity, joy, and a love of learning—in both languages.

Our learning culture emphasizes:

· Belonging and inclusion, so every child feels seen and supported

· High expectations, paired with encouragement and care

· Curiosity and exploration, allowing students to ask questions and take risks

· Collaboration and community, helping children learn with and from one another

In this environment, bilingual learning happens naturally as students build language skills through meaningful, engaging experiences.

A Balanced Kindergarten Program

We balance structure and play to support the whole child. Students build strong academic foundations while developing social-emotional skills and confidence.

Kindergarten students at Columbus Bilingual Central experience:

· Instruction in two languages

· Early literacy and math development

· Social-emotional learning and relationship building

· Creative, hands-on activities

· Plenty of time to play, move, and explore

Research shows bilingual education supports cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and cultural awareness—benefits that last well beyond kindergarten.

---

Enrollment for Kindergarten Fall 2026 is now open. Bilingual kindergarten seats are limited and in high demand, so early applications are encouraged.

Maria Garcia earned a bachelor’s degree in social science with a concentration in Criminal Justice, bringing a unique and insightful perspective to the educational landscape. Her education journey began over 11 years ago, starting as a Middle School Science Teacher. This career path, initially sparked by an opportunity to teach life skills to juveniles as a correctional officer, quickly blossomed into a profound passion for nurturing young minds.

Her inspiration to become an educator stem from the deep satisfaction of mentoring individuals to become the best versions of themselves. She envisions a school that upholds a high academic standard while profoundly respecting the diverse needs of all learners. Her core goals include fostering active involvement from parents and the community in students’ learning journeys, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for both teaching and learning, and celebrating the rich diversity that strengthens the school community.

She believes that a positive and supportive school culture is built upon strong relationships among teachers, students, parents, and staff. Creating an environment of inclusivity and safety is paramount to fostering a thriving educational community. Outside of her dedication to education, she enjoys unwinding with video games, expressing her creativity through acrylic painting, and finding solace in writing poems. Her diverse background, from correctional officer to dedicated educator, has uniquely shaped her understanding of human potential and her unwavering commitment to empowering students to reach their fullest capabilities.

---

Columbus Bilingual Central, a new charter school focused on Spanish language development and Latino cultural studies, will open its doors in Fall 2025. The school, managed by Accel Schools, a leading network of public charter schools, will provide a rigorous academic environment with a strong emphasis on bilingualism and cultural awareness, serving students in grades Kindergarten through 6th.

Columbus Bilingual Central will offer students a unique, tuition-free educational experience, featuring at least 45 minutes of daily Spanish instruction. The curriculum will integrate Latino cultural studies, fostering a deep appreciation for the rich heritage of the Latino community. Students will benefit from a structured learning environment with a rigorous academic and behavior code, a uniform policy, a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework, and the award-winning Blitz™ academic model. An early entrance to kindergarten option will be available for students who turn five years old by December 31st.

“We are thrilled to bring Columbus Bilingual Central to Columbus,” said Dr. Chad Carr, Executive Vice President of ACCEL Schools ​. “Our goal is to create a school where students excel academically, develop a strong sense of cultural identity, and become proficient in Spanish. We believe this unique, tuition-free educational model, serving grades K-5 and offering early kindergarten entry, will empower students to thrive in an increasingly globalized world.”

Accel Schools, a national leader in charter school management, will provide the operational and academic support necessary to ensure the success of Columbus Bilingual Central. Accel Schools is known for its commitment to academic excellence and track record of improving student outcomes in underserved communities.

The school’s mascot, the Puma, will represent its students’ strength, agility, and determination. Columbus Bilingual Central is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where all students can reach their full potential.   

Key features of Columbus Bilingual Central include:

• Tuition-free education.
• Serving grades Kindergarten through 5th grade.
• Minimum of 45 minutes of daily Spanish instruction.
• Integration of Latino cultural studies into the curriculum.
• Rigorous academic and behavior code.
• Uniform policy.
• PBIS framework.
• Blitz™ academic model.
• Early entrance to kindergarten option for students turning 5 by December 31st.

---

Columbus Bilingual Central is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year!

When it comes to education, a great start can make all the difference. Our students excel with the support of nurturing teachers, a safe and secure environment, and individualized learning experiences. This solid foundation sets them up for growth and success from the very beginning. Explore the opportunities Columbus Bilingual Central has to offer your child!

Early Learning Programs

• Free, full-day Kindergarten

• Early entrance to Kindergarten option for students who turn 5 by December 31st & pass an assessment

Well-Rounded Academics

• Bilingual English & Spanish education for language proficiency & cultural awareness

• Creative Arts instruction in Art & Music fosters imagination & self-expression

• Physical Education program promotes fitness, health & teamwork

• Classroom technology includes 1:1 Chromebooks to accelerate learning

Special Features

• Nurturing & empowering Spanish-speaking teachers & staff

• Safe, secure campus creates a welcoming learning environment

• Free tutoring to support student academic success

• Guest speakers from local organizations including fire & police departments

• Annual events & activities to celebrate Spanish & Latino heritage

• Free breakfast & lunch

---

The future is bright with Columbus Bilingual Central! Start your application today:

According to the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, charter schools are independently operated public schools that have the freedom to design classrooms that meet their students’ needs. All charter schools operate under a contract with a charter school authorizer – usually a nonprofit organization, government agency, or university – that holds them accountable to the exacting standards outlined in their charter. 

Why Choose Charter?  
The reasons parents choose charter schools for their children are just as unique as the students themselves. Here are a few of the reasons why families choose charter education:  

Teachers  
Charter schools are known for having dedicated administrators and teachers who have a stake in their students’ success. The charter model encourages innovation, thinking “outside the box,” and going the extra mile to help each student be successful.  

School’s focus  
Instead of a one size, fits all approach, charter schools can change it up! They may choose a specific educational methodology like Montessori or the school could emphasize STEM learning or bilingual instruction, like Columbus Bilingual West. Parents are often drawn to a charter school for the specific programs it offers. Open Houses and special events on campus are excellent opportunities to get to know what makes each school unique. 

Time for a change  
Whether your child is struggling in his or her current school, needs extra challenge, or simply is ready for a different educational environment, charter schools offer a fresh approach to learning that many families appreciate. Every child is unique and charter schools offer many different options for meeting your family’s educational needs. 

---

Enrollment is open for Fall 2024

When children participate in language instruction, they learn transferable skills that help them in school and in life. Learning another language helps students develop important cognitive abilities such as problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students learn how to be good listeners, regulate their behavior, and empathize with others. And a bilingual education also provides valuable language skills that students can rely upon in the job market. 

Experts say that students in schools that offer language instruction develop strong executive function skills. These skills help students learn self-control, focus, and how to follow instructions. Students learn to be creative and “think on their feet” because communicating in another language exercises the brain and requires children to think about to how to effectively convey thoughts. Students who display creativity and strong executive function perform better in school and are more prepared for success in college and careers. 

When students study another language, it broadens their world view and fosters understanding. Classes participate in activities that celebrate cultural heritage and traditions. Bilingual education is a powerful way to encourage cultural exchange, strengthen school culture, and prepare students to thrive in our global society. 

We are proud to be accredited by Cognia™ for meeting the highest standards of education in ongoing third-party review. Learn more »

We are a proud member of ACCEL Schools—a public charter school network serving thousands of PK-12 students throughout the United States. ACCEL was founded in 2012 by the early pioneers of online learning. Our leadership believes that all children, regardless of location or socio-economic background, deserve a quality education that prepares them to succeed in school and become productive global citizens.  

ACCEL Schools Instructional Model provides: 

• Aligned Academics meet or exceed state standards ensuring your child is on track for rigorous college and career opportunities.    
  
• Certified, Licensed Teachers and a student-centered staff are united in executing our mission to make a difference in the life trajectory of each student.    
  
• More Time on Task and double the instructional minutes for ELA and Math maximizes learning in your child’s school day.   
  
• Short Cycle Assessments keep track of how students are progressing in the program, giving teachers ongoing feedback so they can tailor instruction to your student’s needs.    
  
• Individualized Instruction driven by assessment data means we are familiar with the needs of each child and set students up for success in each course of study.    
  
• State Testing Preparation reduces the anxiety often associated with high stakes tests, helping our teachers and students feel confident with the structure and methodology of state exams.    
  
• Academic Support including education technology, interventional specialists, and instructional aides assist students during the school day. After school tutoring, summer school, and Saturday school programs extend support services beyond the traditional school day and year.   
  
• Extracurricular Courses & Activities round out our educational offerings providing students social-emotional learning, athletics, arts, service learning & more.