The Spanish program at Arcata High is popular among the students, and with the addition of two new teachers, the department only continues to grow in size. This opens new opportunities for students and teachers alike. Not only to learn more, but to apply that learning in daily life.
Don Miguel and Maestra Maria, the two new Spanish teachers at Arcata High, are excited about this teaching opportunity. They can’t wait to make new relationships with students and teachers.
Don Miguel, recognizable for his braided beard, grew up in Eureka and attended St. Bernard’s Academy. He loves to surf, dabbles in skateboarding, and plays in local amateur billiard tournaments in his free time. With three young boys, his free time may be scarce, but Don Miguel makes the most of it.
For six years, he taught English in Oaxaca, Mexico, where he met his wife. He then taught in Ventura County before moving back to Humboldt. He became a credentialed Spanish teacher 13 years ago. So far, he loves working at Arcata High.
“One of my first experiences was the pep rally, and I was just kinda blown away by how loud it was and how enthusiastic everyone was,” Don Miguel said. “Arcata High is the biggest school that I’ve worked at, and, being a new teacher, there are so many new protocols and procedures. It’s a little overwhelming, but I’m excited to work with the students.”
Maestra Maria may not have grown up as a local, but in Barcelona, Spain, before moving to California 10 years ago. Maria has taught Spanish for 13 years. Before that, she taught music. She loves being in nature, surfing, and riding her bike. Her favorite part about Arcata is the plaza, as it reminds her of the plazas in Spain. She enjoys teaching at Arcata High, is excited to meet new people, and is happy to be sharing her wealth of knowledge.
“Everyone here seems so welcoming, which is pretty good, especially for a high school,” Maria said. “I want [my students] to take advantage of me because I come from a place where we speak Spanish. I want them to learn my language and my culture, and I love teaching them [about] both.”
Sophomore Lydia Gerdes takes Spanish 3 with Don Miguel, and so far, it has been an adventure. She is looking forward to the rest of the year and can’t wait to eat more food and play more games.
“I have already learned so much,” Gerdes shared.
Freshman Maliyah Johnson is greatly enjoying her first year in Spanish at Arcata High. She is taking Spanish 1 with Maestra Maria.
“I like that our workload isn’t too much, but we are still learning a lot,” Maliyah said. “The teacher is really chill, and I’m excited to learn more Spanish.”
The growth in the Spanish program is exciting. This year, there has been a 7% increase in students taking Spanish, with 406 total students enrolled. Compared to the 107 students taking French, these numbers are high. This is going to bring a lot to Arcata High and the surrounding community.
“[Spanish] class is so engaging and fun, I am actually enjoying learning and am excited to learn more,” Gerdes said.
