Business Details
35 Years
experience
Trusted Spanish Language Programs for Childcare Centers
Founded in 1991, O'Neill Language Academy has dedicated over three decades to transforming Spanish language education for childcare centers, elementary schools, and families. Our mission is to make learning Spanish accessible, engaging, and effective through innovative programs tailored for young learners. With a team of passionate educators, we provide on-site classes, comprehensive curriculum resources, and flexible online memberships designed to empower educators and enrich students' linguistic development. Our approach combines decades of educational expertise with practical, turnkey solutions that require no prior Spanish knowledge, ensuring schools can confidently implement bilingual programs.We prioritize parent engagement through weekly updates and home-learning tools, fostering a collaborative environment where language acquisition thrives. Backed by a proven track record of boosting enrollment and income for partner institutions, our programs reflect a commitment to quality, innovation, and measurable outcomes. As lifelong learners ourselves, we continuously refine our methods to align with evolving educational standards while maintaining the joy and cultural richness inherent in language learning.
Services
On-Site Spanish Classes
Online Membership Program
Teach & Learn Curriculum
Spanish Merchandise
Complimentary Sample Classes
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience in Spanish education for young learners
- Practical, turnkey solutions requiring no prior Spanish knowledge
- Year-round support included with all programs
- Proven to increase enrollment and income for schools
- Engaging curriculum combining music, movement, and cultural exploration
Services
On-Site Spanish Classes
Our on-site classes bring Spanish language education directly to childcare centers and elementary schools. Certified instructors deliver 30-minute weekly sessions using interactive methods like songs, games, and cultural activities. Programs cater to children aged 2-9, with options for full-class participation or optional enrichment programs. The structured curriculum ensures consistent progress while maintaining student engagement through age-appropriate materials and teaching techniques.
Online Membership Program
The Teach & Learn Spanish online membership provides educators with comprehensive resources to teach Spanish independently. Members gain access to lesson plans, audio files, flashcards, and interactive activities organized by monthly themes. No prior Spanish experience is required, as the program includes step-by-step instructions and year-round support. This flexible solution allows staff to implement Spanish instruction at their own pace while maintaining curriculum consistency across classrooms.
Teach & Learn Curriculum
Our curriculum package includes physical and digital resources for teaching Spanish to children aged 2-8. Materials feature pronunciation guides, visual aids, and multisensory activities designed to reinforce language retention. The month-based structure aligns with school calendars, providing a logical progression of vocabulary and concepts. Available for purchase separately, this curriculum supports both classroom instruction and home practice, creating continuity between school and family learning environments.
Spanish Merchandise
We offer branded Spanish-themed merchandise including T-shirts featuring festive designs like piatas. These 100% cotton garments for toddlers and preschoolers promote language pride while creating visual unity during Spanish Day events. The apparel serves as both promotional material for partner schools and tangible reinforcement of language learning through daily wear. Sizes XS, S, and M accommodate children aged 2-6, ensuring comfortable fit for active learning environments.
Complimentary Sample Classes
We provide free sample classes to introduce Spanish programming at childcare centers. These trial sessions allow all students to experience our teaching methods while staff capture promotional materials for parent communication. The classes demonstrate program benefits through interactive activities, giving families firsthand insight into the learning process. This risk-free option helps schools build parent support before implementing full programs, ensuring community buy-in and successful adoption.
People
Theresa Gunderson
Co-Founder/Executive Director
Theresa Gunderson, co-founder of O'Neill Language Academy, brings 30+ years of educational experience as a former PK-8 principal, Spanish immersion teacher, and curriculum developer. She holds advanced degrees in second language education and has trained educators nationwide on implementing effective bilingual programs for young learners.
Jim Gunderson
Co-Founder/CFO
Jim Gunderson co-founded O'Neill Language Academy with his wife Theresa in 1991. As CFO, he manages financial operations while supporting the organization's mission to make Spanish language education accessible to childcare centers and elementary schools across multiple states.
Questions
What age groups do your Spanish programs serve?
Our programs cater to children aged 2 through 9 years old, with developmentally appropriate materials for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary students.
Do teachers need Spanish experience to use your curriculum?
No prior Spanish knowledge is required. Our curriculum includes pronunciation guides, audio resources, and step-by-step lesson plans designed for easy implementation by any educator.
How are on-site classes structured?
Weekly 30-minute sessions are delivered in your classrooms by our certified instructors. Programs can serve entire classrooms or function as optional enrichment with minimum participation requirements.
What support is included with your programs?
All programs include year-round support, marketing materials, parent communication tools, and access to our team of Spanish education specialists for implementation guidance.
Are your materials available for purchase separately?
Yes, our Teach & Learn Spanish curriculum is available as physical books with CDs or digital downloads through Amazon and Teachers Pay Teachers platforms.
