Providing the Link between Two Cultures: Connections Language School
Tara A. Spears
In a country where the federal government recognizes Spanish as the national language but also 68 indigenous languages besides having a large tourism industry, it’s almost a must to be bilingual. For many nationals, their feeling of self-worth is associated with their language because historically only the wealthy were bilingual. One of the main goals of Connections Language School in La Penita is to provide the second language framework to develop confidence. Director and teacher, Julie Amaro, explains “I chose Connections for the name because I wanted to create a bridge between the two language communities and help people form connections. I found that the origin of a lot of prejudice comes from language misunderstandings.”
Armed with training and field experience in Teaching English as a Second Language, Julie’s biggest strength is her empathy for the students. “I grew up in a multilingual city. I also struggled with the same things you will and I can give you tips that worked for me.” Julie’s genuine caring about her student’s progress goes beyond her degrees. She cares about the students as individuals.
When Julie first came to Jaltemba Bay six years ago, once people realized that she was bilingual, they asked her to translate for them. Then new acquaintances asked for lessons which evolved into forming the school. “I want to make the students interactions with foreigners easier and less stressful. I want to help them build their confidence in themselves. I would give classes for free if I could afford to, and hopefully someday I will.”
The Connections Language School is organized around the students’ age and skill level. The instruction is in one hour segments and lessons are student based, meaning that the language is relevant to their interests. Julie says that best time in the classroom is when the student has an ‘ah ha’ moment, “when the concept clarity happens. It’s so satisfying!”
While many students eagerly embrace the books and practice sheets, when it comes to speaking the language they are hesitant. “I try to make the learning environment comfortable and supportive in order for the student to overcome their nervousness, to lose their fear of speaking the foreign language.”
“I am a teacher because I want to use my skills and knowledge to help people. I want to help people expand their imagination of what is possible for their lives, “said Julie. “It is my dream to start a community library here that offers free support to students. Each language lesson is a step towards the student’s dream.”
There are so many benefits for having bilingual instruction. While most Jaltemba Bay parents want their children to be able to get a better paying job with a second language, there are many more reasons. According to research, bilingual students have been found to possess a heightened intelligence and possess advanced creativity. The ability to speak more than one language shapes the brain’s capability of thinking outside the box and thinking up innovative ways to solve problems. This trait enables bilinguals to pursue bilingual jobs and hobbies. Age is a factor in learning language: the younger one starts, the easier it is. But that doesn’t preclude seniors from learning a second language; perhaps learning will take a little more time. Julie feels that “Learning another language allows you to become part of that culture and to understand the behavior (of the new culture) better.”
Julie strives to help people form connections: socially, physically, and cognitively through learning another language because ‘the limits of my language are the limits of my world.’
Interested in learning Spanish or sponsoring a local student to learn English, contact Julie on FB or cell 322 170 0785 or email: amarojewels@gmail.com
