World Languages Dpt. » World Languages

World Languages

Van Nuys High School Spanish Department.
Welcome to the World Language Department at Van Nuys High School!
 

At Van Nuys High School, our World Language Department is committed to helping students grow as confident, culturally aware communicators. We offer engaging and rigorous Spanish language courses that focus on real-world communication, cultural understanding, and college and career readiness.

 

Our department offers a range of classes designed to meet the needs of all learners—from Spanish 1 for beginners to advanced-level courses such as Spanish for Spanish Speakers and AP Spanish Language & Culture. New for the 2025–2026 school year, we are excited to offer Medical Spanish, Spanish Film & Literature, and Spanish IV: Modern Latin America, each thoughtfully aligned to our magnet themes and California World Language Standards.

 

Our teachers prioritize speaking and listening in the target language while supporting reading and writing through interactive, project-based learning. Students participate in rich cultural experiences like Día de los Muertos altars, piñata-making, restaurant simulations, and other hands-on projects that bring Spanish to life.

We believe all students can succeed in learning a second language, and we’re proud to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every student feels seen, challenged, and inspired.

 

¡Bienvenidos!

Graduation Requirement


Students must complete two consecutive years (or four sequential semesters) of the same world language to meet the graduation requirement. In some cases, this requirement may be fulfilled through approved language proficiency exams.

Languages Other Than English (LOTE)

At Van Nuys High School, our World Language (LOTE) courses are designed to help students become confident, real-world communicators in another language. Guided by the California World Language Standards and the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) Proficiency Guidelines, our classes prioritize speaking, listening, reading, and writing in the target language.

 

Most instruction is delivered in the language being taught, allowing students to immerse themselves in authentic communication and cultural learning. Lessons are thoughtfully designed to be engaging, meaningful, and accessible to all learners—including English learners—through scaffolded supports, visuals, and research-based strategies.

Our goal is to prepare all students to be college, career, and world ready—equipped with the language skills and cultural awareness needed to succeed in today’s global society.   

 

 

Why Study Spanish at Van Nuys High School?

  • Stand out in a competitive job market.
    Bilingual professionals are in high demand across industries like healthcare, law, education, and business.

  • Do your job better.
    Spanish prepares you to communicate effectively with clients, patients, and coworkers in a variety of fields.

  • Boost your English.
    Studying Spanish helps improve your English vocabulary and grammar, especially through shared Latin roots.

  • Enhance your travel experiences.
    Spanish is spoken in 21 countries and widely across the U.S.—you’ll travel smarter and connect more deeply with people and culture.

  • Prepare for study abroad and work abroad opportunities.
    Spanish opens the door to global partnerships, internships, and international programs.

  • Spanish is everywhere.
    It’s the second most spoken language in the U.S. and one of the most useful languages in the world.

  • Gain cultural insight and global awareness.
    Spanish gives you access to a rich world of music, film, literature, and traditions from Spain, Latin America, and the U.S. Latino community. 

Careers in World Languages (Spanish)

Studying Spanish opens doors to exciting and meaningful careers in a wide range of fields. Being bilingual isn't just a skill—it's a competitive advantage.

Career Paths for Spanish Speakers:

  • Education: Bilingual teacher, world language instructor, counselor, school administrator

  • Healthcare: Nurse, doctor, EMT, medical translator, public health worker

  • Law & Public Service: Immigration attorney, court interpreter, law enforcement, social worker

  • Business & Marketing: International sales, marketing specialist, human resources, customer relations

  • Media & Communications: Translator, journalist, content creator, PR specialist

  • Travel & Hospitality: Flight attendant, tour guide, hotel manager, cultural liaison

  • Government & Nonprofits: Diplomat, foreign service officer, NGO coordinator, community advocate

  • Arts & Entertainment: Actor, writer, filmmaker, translator for scripts or subtitles

  • Technology: User experience researcher, localization specialist, global tech support

Why Spanish?

  • Over 40 million Spanish speakers live in the U.S.

  • Spanish is an official language in 20+ countries

  • Bilingual employees often earn more and have more job opportunities

  • Many universities and employers prefer or require Spanish fluency