Christina majored in Spanish Education with Endorsements in ESL/Bilingual Education and English Language Arts (5th-8th) at Trinity Christian College.
She will be jumping into the classroom and teaching 6th-8th grade students at Hamlin Upper Grade Center in Alsip, IL!
Some Fun Facts About Christina
- Theme Song: A Dios le Pido – Juanes
- Languages Christina will be Teaching: Spanish, English, ESL
- Favorite Word in Another Language: Barbaridad in Spanish – Outrage/Barbarity; often used as an interjection to express disapproval, outrage, or even surprise or amazement. I like it because it sounds outrageous to me, even when used seriously.
What are you most excited about when you think of your future classroom?
As a career changer earning my degree later in life, I have been waiting a long time to have my own classroom! I worked as a long-term substitute and paraprofessional while I was working on my teaching licensure, which provided great experience and exposure to diverse teaching styles. I am excited to put all my learning and preparation into practice in my own way this school year!
What activities or experiences would you say have most prepared you to enter the classroom or profession?
I would say that having a job in a school, apart from any required fieldwork or volunteer opportunities, has helped me have a more realistic understanding of what the teaching profession is like at both an employee level and working with students within the classroom. It has also helped me build a network of colleagues both within and outside of my school district.
What makes an amazing language educator?
In my humble opinion, the most amazing language educators are always looking for opportunities to learn and grow, whether it be in their own language skills, teaching practices, or interpersonal connections. They strive to have meaningful connections with students in particular, and use what they learn about their students to bring language to life in their lessons.
What has been the impact of the ACTFL Teacher Scholarship Program on your experience becoming a language teacher?
I was thrilled and honored to be selected for the Teacher Scholarship Program. I had low expectations when I applied, since the program seemed geared toward traditional college students. As a returning college student (with children of my own preparing for college), this award has been a tremendous help in offsetting some of the cost of my education and providing the invaluable benefit of access to ACTFL's vast resources. Thank you, again, for your generous support!
You’re invited!
- Explore the Teacher Scholarship Program and refer aspiring teachers in your network.
- Hear reflections from Christina and fellow graduates in a short video!
- Share your #LanguageDream on social media @LangConnectsFdn.