Mission Statement

The mission of HBIS is to promote high levels of Spanish and English language proficiency, academic achievement in both languages, high self-esteem and positive cross-cultural attitudes.

History

Harris Bilingual Immersion School (HBIS) has a rich history in Fort Collins. Built in 1919, along with a twin school, Washington School, Harris was one of the first elementary schools built in Fort Collins. Of the 7 schools built between 1871 and 1919, only half remain. In 1939, Harris Elementary was named after former teacher and Principal Margaret “Mame” Harris. After serving the neighborhood for over 70 years, Harris Bilingual Immersion School (HBIS) opened its doors in 1993 as a dual language school with 88 students in grades K-4. We now serve over 300 students from Early Childhood to Grade 5.  Our colors are Purple and Teal. Our mascot is a Stegosaurus named Esteve.

Dual Language

At Harris Bilingual Immersion School (HBIS) we follow a dual language, two-way immersion program and have done so for 25 years!  Our students’ first language is either Spanish or English and they learn the district curriculum in both languages, achieving at high levels in both languages. The pillars of our dual language program are: bilingualism and biliteracy, high academic achievement in both program languages and to promote sociocultural competence in our community of learners. Our dedicated staff supports our primary goal of "All children speak, read, and write in English and Spanish at high levels while meeting Colorado Academic Standards" by offering enriching and rigorous instruction. Harris Bilingual Immersion School has received multiple awards for achievement and excellence!