Our school

Columbus Bilingual West is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in Kindergarten (Early Entry) through 8th grade across West Columbus, Ohio, from the Hilltop out to far west Grove City. The school delivers daily instruction in both English and Spanish, building bilingual students who carry two languages and the cultural confidence that comes with them. Principal Odaliz Freytes leads a building where Spanish isn't a weekly enrichment block. It's part of how the school operates, every day, for every student.

The academic program is standards-based and rigorous: reading, math, science, and social studies, with instruction adjusted to meet each student's level. Classes are hands-on, emphasizing critical thinking and real understanding rather than memorization. Teachers use the data to know where each child is and what he or she needs next.

The school runs on the Jag Awards system, recognizing students quarterly for growth and character. The VALOR Student of the Week program celebrates individual effort. Art classes and cultural activities support creativity and expression. Field trips and school events bring learning beyond the classroom walls.

After-school programming runs until 6:00 p.m. Counseling services are provided through a partnership with SANOS Counseling, the school's bilingual counseling provider. Transportation is provided through Columbus City Schools. Every enrolled student receives free breakfast and lunch.

Community partnerships run deep. The school works with Columbus Metropolitan Library (Hilltop Branch), Simakovsky Law, Columbus Public Health, Franklin County Sheriff Department, Central Ohio Worker Center / Justice for Migrant Women, Alianza 614, Coats4Childrens, Kroger, Smile Programs (mobile dentists), Girl Scouts of Ohio, Ohio Optometric Association, Nationwide Children's Hospital (Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition), and OSU Extension (College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences). Events include Latino Heritage Month, the Latino Heritage Parade, Back to School Event, Turkey Trot, Holiday Celebration, Winter Clothing Drive, Books and Badges Girl Scouts Program, EFNEP Nutrition Education Celebration, Realeyes Program, Jag Awards assemblies, and Parent Teacher Conferences.

Free full-day Kindergarten is available, with early entrance for students who turn 5 by December 31 through a readiness assessment.

Columbus Bilingual West is located at 680 Harrisburg Pike, Columbus, OH 43223. Call (380) 266-0055 or visit cbwschool.org.

Community schools offer an alternative to the local public school. They are free and open to all students and focused on meeting student needs for success. Community schools are among the top-performing schools in the nation.