A teacher in a classroom with her students ( peopleimages12 (123RF))
Rota’s School Liaison is a good first resource for any questions regarding school options while stationed in Spain. While most students attend a Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school, both home school options and local Spanish schools are available.
Bldg. 41 | 727-2425, 956-82-2425
The DoDEA schools at Rota share a large campus in the Las Palmeras housing area. The campus is named after David Glasgow Farragut, which is often shortened to DGF.
Enroll for DoDEA schools at www.dodea.edu/registration.
727-4187, 956-82-4187
The elementary school has roughly 500 students in pre-Kindergarten to fifth grade. The school offers classes in Spanish language and culture, a variety of after-school clubs, and special events. There are two military family life counselors (MFLC) and the Anchored4Life program to support students’ social skills, mental health needs and military transitions.
727-4183, 956-82-4183
The combined middle and high schools have roughly 330 students in grades 6-12th. Graduation requirements are comparable to stateside schools, dual-credit college programs and AP courses are offered. There are many clubs and after-school activities, and twelve varsity sports compete with other DoDEA schools across Europe. There are MFLC and FFSC counselors at the school to support students.
The NEX handles the school lunch program. Visit www.mynavyexchange.com/studentmealprogram to sign up, apply for free and reduced meals, and add funds to your child’s account.
Home schooling is a legal option open to all command-sponsored dependents. Your children may be eligible to enroll as an auxiliary student at the base DoDEA school. A social group maintains a Facebook page called Rota Area Homeschool Families, and the school liaison hosts quarterly meet-and-greets.
While stationed in Spain, you have the option to send your children to local public or private Spanish schools. All instruction will be in Spanish. School hours are typically 9 a.m.–2 p.m. There is a snack break, but lunch is not served.
Spanish public education is mandatory for 6–16 year-olds, or first to tenth grade. Students in primary grades (1st to 6th) tend to have a better experience, while those in secondary grades (7th to 10th) may not find the system conducive to easily returning to an American high school system. After 10th grade, students choose between vocational degrees or a Bachillerato to prepare for university entrance exams.
The school liaison has information about local schools, seasonal workshops and registration procedures. Visit www.smore.com/szfpt for details.
