Spanish is a language that is spoken throughout the entire United States. Some people speak it better than others, and there are different ways of speaking Spanish.
Hispanics/Latinos are a big contribution and are part of the diversity that is at Messmer High School. Senora Cristiana Edgar is one of the Spanish teachers here. She is originally from Costa Rica and Spanish is her first language. Ms. Edgar said, “When I first got here to the United States it was difficult for me to adapt to the Spanish spoken here because I didn’t know the language and culture, and it took me a year to feel comfortable.”
She found many differences between what she was used to and the Spanish spoken in the United States. About the challenges of teaching Spanish Senora Edgar said, “I wouldn't say it's hard. I love my job and I enjoy teaching what I do best. Teaching about Latin American Culture is something I also think is very important.”
Esmeralda Cruz a senior who is part of Senora Edgar's Spanish for Native Speakers II class. Esmeralda feels the class has helped her improve her Spanish. She came into this class not knowing what to expect because she found the way she was speaking Spanish wasn’t correct. Throughout her second year of a required Spanish class she has realized that her reading and pronunciation has gotten better. Esmeralda says, “Spanish is very important personally because it comes from Latin. Latin is the root of many other languages and it can [help you] to understand other languages.”
Senora Edgar and Esmeralda both believe that Spanish is very important professionally because it can open the doors to many other opportunities. In specific Senora Edgar stated, “Working as a Spanish teacher I help students know about the importance of learning a new language. When I have some of my old students come back to visit from college and they tell me that they continue to study Spanish I am glad I helped them to get there.” Thanks to Senora Edgar who dedicates her time after school and Saturday mornings, many students have improved their Spanish. The hard work and effort has put in is paying off, and she is greatly appreciated. Gracias, Ms. Edgar!
Contributed by senior Sandra Calderon-Torres
