This article describes the effects of placing Spanish-speaking students in an Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish Language course in the 8th grade. Fifty-eight Hispanic students in the AP class and a similar comparison group answered survey questions on parental involvement, peers, sense of belonging at school, and academic aspirations. Data gathered indicate that the AP students are more optimistic about their future and make friends who care more about grades. These students were more likely to enroll in advanced courses in 9th grade. Results suggest that Spanish-speaking skills can be viewed as a strength and as a gateway to academic success. (Contains 4 tables and 2 figures.)