In today’s world knowing another language is impactful. Learning Spanish isn’t just about knowing words, it’s about being able to program our brains to think in a different way. Spanish helps connect with millions of people around the globe. Knowing Spanish fluently can allow people to communicate with people from Spain, Latin America, and many more communities right here in the U.S. Involving more students in Spanish classes is important for language education because it prepares students for the future, opens opportunities, and showcases versatility. Also, understanding multiple languages also opens more doors for job opportunities, healthcare fields, and helps others understand different cultures. Although Spanish is very useful, many schools don’t have enough money or time to offer good Spanish programs. Unfortunately, Berlin is in danger of becoming one of those schools.
The Berlin Area School District used to have three full time Spanish teachers and now we are down to only one. Dr. Jody Ziemann was a Spanish teacher but retired in 2024. Missy Daubner was also a Spanish teacher in the middle school, but with students and Spanish classes’ enrollment declining, there weren’t enough classes to keep Daubner teaching Spanish. Daubner moved to teaching food classes in the high school. Jairo Granados is now the only full time Spanish teacher at BHS. Granados teaches six classes a semester leaving his schedule full, but not many students are in each class. For example, in Granados’ second hour class he only has five students.
Most colleges don’t require two years of foreign languages like Spanish anymore, so many students don’t feel the need to take it. This has also affected how students look at taking that class. Spanish classes are very demanding on a student and need focus and commitment. By investing in Spanish education it empowers students to connect with diverse cultures, and help them achieve more in their future careers.
