La Escuelita, a Warwick (Rhode Island) Spanish language instruction program for children in grades 3 through 6, originated in 1983 in a group-tutoring program and expanded under the auspices of the local Parent-Teacher Association into an after-school activity for all city schoolchildren. The PTA undertook the administrative tasks, and the founders gathered a small faculty. The initial enrollment was 27 students. Policies emphasizing homework and parental involvement were established. Teaching methods, primarily audio-lingual, were geared to the age group, with emphasis on the spoken language in the third and fourth grades and with the addition of writing at the higher levels. Specific skill objectives were established for each grade level. Fees were set to pay for teacher and administrator salaries and supplies. Session schedules were coordinated with the PTA Council, but scheduling of classroom time was delegated to the school directors. An open house at the end of each school session has included a demonstration of learned skills and cultural knowledge and the awarding of certificates of merit to graduating students. Native speakers visit the classes; audiovisual programs, folk-dance demonstrations, and crafts activities are provided for enrichment. While some problems have arisen, such as money management, student placement, and publicity, the program has been generally successful. (MSE)