"I feel honored to have received this award, especially when I really love what I do. That means that I am valued for doing what I love,” remarked Maria José Larrea. “I owe a special thanks to my colleagues on the English side, to my DLI colleagues, but above all to my principal, Emily, who has always given me feedback, seeking for me to grow not only as a professional but as a human being. This award inspires me to continue striving for excellence and to help children on their way."
Park Elementary Principal Emily Catellier expressed her gratitude for the exceptional educator, “Maria José has embraced the challenges of teaching in a dual language setting with enthusiasm and creativity. Her approach promotes a high degree of language acquisition among our youngest students while also celebrating their diverse backgrounds.”
Maria José inspires her fellow educators to explore new methodologies and approaches in their teaching with her contagious enthusiasm to grow, learn, and achieve continued excellence. “Her students are not just learning a new language; they are actively using it to learn math and science content and to be able to communicate and express their thoughts and feelings. She has shared freely her Ecuadorian traditions and practices in both the classroom and in the Latin American cooking and dance club that she has sponsored. As a result, her students have shown tremendous curiosity regarding Hispanic culture and have made tremendous gains in their acquisition of the Spanish Language,” shared Catellier.
The Wyoming Association of Language Teachers annually recognizes an outstanding K-12 teacher or university professor who has been teaching for fewer than five years for this award. The Wyoming Association of Language Teachers is a professional organization dedicated to supporting world languages teachers and promoting linguistic and cultural competence among K-16 learners in Wyoming. (wyominglanguageteachers.org)
Congratulations, Ms. Larrea Arellano, on this exceptional recognition and celebration of your commitment to educational excellence and the brilliant work you do each day!
*First photo courtesy of the Wyoming Association of Language Teachers (WALT)