It was just after 9/11 and I was working for United Airlines. I needed a change.
I had my bachelor’s degree and I knew I wanted to teach, but I didn’t have any experience nor any teaching classes. I saw a listing for a part-time position at Arcadia High School in Arcadia, CA. I got the job. I didn’t know what I was doing, but I got the job.
The first day was scary. The kids had already been in school a month and they had only a substitute teacher that whole time, a substitute who didn’t know any Spanish. The kids were anxious to learn and I, to teach.
Having no education classes to rely upon, I taught them how I was taught, using a textbook. It didn’t take long for both my students and I to get bored. I didn’t know what to do. I searched all over for something to improve my classes. I read book upon book upon book. I went to some teaching workshops. But nothing was much help. Something had to change. That’s when I stumbled upon TPRS® and Blaine Ray. That’s the moment I truly became a teacher.
It was the beginning of second semester and my kids noticed a change. We were having fun in class, we were laughing, we were talking in Spanish, and, most importantly, they were learning!
My principal had come to observe me and he couldn’t believe his eyes. My classroom was totally different. The kids were engaged and enjoying it.
I finally was teaching Spanish and there was no looking back!
That’s how my story begins. That’s how I discovered the best job in the world. That’s how I discovered the best way to teach a foreign language.
I have been teaching using TPRS® ever since. I taught at Arcadia HS for four years and then moved to Las Vegas to teach with the great Carmen Andrews-Sánchez at Silverado HS.
What others have to say…
Thanks for being such a great teacher overall. Your lesson plans and teaching methods have been the best way to direct me toward my goals–speaking and writing Spanish fluently. Next year, I’ll take these skills to Spanish 3 and I will be well equipped and ready to take on any task they give me. Thanks again, and have a great summer=-)
—student-Arcadia HS
I just wanted to take a minute and thank you again for all that you did for Tommy last year. You must have really touched him because he was very pleased to tell both Sue and me that you had an open door for him to come back if he needed help or even just had a question.
—parent-Arcadia HS
I would like to thank you for running your class in a manor that is both fun and educational. Alex loves it. He is challenging himself to earn an A in your class… You are doing a great job. Thank you for caring and taking the time to engage my son in your class. I appreciate it very much.
—parent-Arcadia HS
I wish you the very best in your teaching in Vegas. You are one of the best teachers i had at ahs. But deep inside, you’ve taught me more than Spanish. You’ve taught me self-confidence, and that I’m better than what I think I am… you taught me that if I put my mind to something, anything is possible, and I’ve blossomed from your invaluable advice.
—student-Arcadia HS
Just wanted to say that arcadia high misses you. Wow…I feel so ahead in Spanish 2…
—student-Arcadia HS
From a parent’s perspective you are a great teacher. The accessibility you provided to assignments, grades, etc. was invaluable. While Ryan didn’t shine in your class, he certainly enjoyed it.
—parent-Arcadia HS
Hey, Mr.B, well, just wanted to say thank you for all the talks and advice and everything else you gave to me, i really needed it, to bad at the time i didnt listen sorry bout all that trouble i caused, im going to repeat ninth grade and do my best, now that I understand how important school is. Once again, Thank you you’re a great teacher!
—student-Silverado HS
Thank you for being such a great teacher, I know I learned alot because I had to use it over the summer (Went to Cancun).
—student-Silverado HS
Hey, you are a cool teacher and I plan to stay in your class to get a better education of spanish and have alot of fun!!!!
—student-Silverado HS
I meant to email you much earlier in the year, but I am just sending this to say thanx. I am now attending San Diego State University, and I am an International business major on my way to either a minor or major in spanish. Because of your teachings I have excelled in spanish remakably and catch on to all the things that the teacher talks about much easier than my fellow peers. I also want to thank you not just for teaching me spanish though but the value of responsibility and the meaning of deadlines. I know it sounds weird but I am actually punctual now. Once again thank you for all that you have done for me and my fellow classmates at arcadia high. You are truly an amazing teacher.
—student-Arcadia HS