Many studies predict that by 2050, the United States will be the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.
Yes- you read that right! The United States could one day be considered a "Spanish-speaking country" by the general public.
"How can that be?" you might ask, "when the primary language claimed by the United States is English?" Actually, it's a common misconception that the United States claims an official language -- it doesn't! Which means that our minds need to remain wide open to the possibility of learning how to speak a second or third language. The growing Hispanic and Spanish-speaking influence in our culture may necessitate it very soon!
As a teacher, it's my belief that our schools and curriculums need to remain both rooted and relevant in order to have lasting impact -- meaning that we have to be ready to adapt and grow while staying true to the core beliefs we hold that make us who we are.
But this shouldn't be a controversial issue. We know that we are made to invest in relationships, and that relationships rely on communication! While language-learning may be a challenge, it's also a responsibility that we have to relate to the world around us, and it is never too late (OR to early!) to get started.
Bethany Fonseca,
Spanish Teacher
Spanish Teacher