In this introductory Spanish class series, children in grades 4-5 will be introduced to the basics of the Spanish language through activities that are fun, relevant, and age-appropriate. Through games, songs, stories, acting, puppetry, movement, chants, and team-building activities, students will become familiar with and practice Spanish in a natural and engaging way. Classes will be active and students will be expected to participate respectfully and fully in each class. No prior Spanish is required. This class is perfect for both beginners and students with some prior Spanish learning. All eager students are welcome.
About the Instructor:
Dawn Ellen "Señora" Kirkland has taught Spanish to children in Maine (grades K-8) for 8 years, and has been an educator to students of all ages and from all around the world for over 20 years. Prior to teaching Spanish, Señora Kirkland developed and directed a study abroad semester program in Ecuador for high school seniors and gap year students. Prior to this, she was an outdoor educator for over a decade, during which time she spent many years working and traveling the globe and immersing in Spanish-speaking cultures. She has traveled extensively throughout Central and South America, and spent 6 years living on-and off in Ecuador where she built a tiny house in a small, surfing village on the coast. Señora Kirkland holds a Masters in Experiential Education and supports the methodology of educating students by leading them through first-hand experiences. She brings this background of teaching into her Spanish classroom where students use their whole bodies and minds to actively and naturally acquire the language. Señora Kirkland currently lives in South Portland with her husband and 13-year-old daughter.