Milwaukee Public Schools' Victory School is inviting families to a free, fun event as the school introduces (or, rather, reintroduces -ed.) a full Italian immersion program, beginning with 4-year-old kindergarten (K4) this fall.

In the full immersion program, students will become bilingual in English and Italian through Italian-language instruction in all subject areas, mirroring the practice of MPS' highly-successful French, German and Spanish immersion schools. Students in immersion programs also build their English skills, and MPS' full immersion elementary schools exceed both district and stage averages in English language arts proficiency.

Victory's full Italian immersion program offers transportation to students from across the city, with the exception of those living within the school's one-mile walk zone. The school also offers a traditional monolingual program.

Families interested in learning more are invited to Victory's annual open house and "Carnevale d'Italia" on Friday, Feb. 12, at the school, 2222 W. Henry Ave. An information session and tours for those interested in either the Italian immersion program or the school's traditional program will be available from 5:30 to 6 p.m. The event continues until 7:30 p.m. with a live DJ, Italian dance, food, face painting and a photo booth. Children must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.

Learn more about the carnevale and the school by calling (414) 304-6700.