Meet Leonardo—a Spanish teacher at Brookland Middle School (Washington, DC).
“Teaching a language means creating bridges.”
The Start of a Teaching Journey
I was inspired to be a teacher because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students. For me, teaching is not only grammar or vocabulary, it is about creating fun and meaningful experiences. With a playful methodology, my classes are more than lessons, they are moments where students enjoy, participate, and feel motivated to learn a new language. What inspires me is to see how these experiences stay in their memory and give them confidence for the future.
Career Highlight
One of my most fulfilling moments has been creating cultural projects that connect students with real life. For example, I recorded dialogues with my daughter about Colombian traditions, sports, and food, and used them in class as authentic listening resources. Students not only learned vocabulary, but also discovered culture in a personal way.
Another memorable experience was my work in the Hospital Classrooms Program in Bogota, Colombia. I taught children who, due to medical conditions, could not attend regular schools. I designed differentiated lessons across subjects and grade levels, always adapting to their individual needs and interests. This work showed me that teaching can bring hope and dignity even in the most challenging circumstances.
