Faculty Spotlight: Taking a Look at Baldwin’s Languages Department

Studying a new language offers more than the ability to speak comfortably if and when you travel to a new place. Mastering a new language gives the individual a deeper perspective and understanding of self and others. When anyone, mainly a Baldwin student, is exposed to outstanding language curricula, their thinking broadens to include global understanding, openness and acceptance of a fast-changing world through language study. Beyond vocabulary and conjugation, Baldwin students, throughout their study, acquire proficiency in world languages and the ability to read and understand literature and appreciate the culture of countries where their chosen language is or has been spoken. Students are constantly encouraged to develop their curiosity, which leads them to learn about the different facets of the various countries and their cultures, whether modern or ancient.

Languages Department Chair, French and Arabic Teacher

Bryn Mawr College - MA

La Sorbonne Université, Paris, France - AD

Université Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon - BA

 

Josiane, the Languages Department Chair at Baldwin, has been teaching for 23 years and currently instructs several Upper School French classes. She is passionate about instilling a love for the French language, culture and literature in her students. Josiane values collaboration within her department, where colleagues support each other professionally and personally. Known for its diversity and congeniality, the department takes pride in being part of Baldwin, an institution recognized for its excellence in teaching.

 

Inspired by a French literature professor who sparked her love for writing and Francophone cultures, Josiane views teaching as a vocation, not just a profession. She believes in nurturing curiosity, critical thinking and collaboration in her students while encouraging them to embrace their mistakes as learning opportunities. “I love sharing my knowledge and learning from my students,” Josiane explains. “Baldwin students bring their enthusiasm, knowledge and dreams into the classroom while practicing and striving to master French. I truly feel that teaching them is a privilege. I listen to their stories and learn from their courage, perspectives, skills and aspirations as they pursue a successful future.”            

 

Beyond language skills, she sees learning a world language as a way to foster tolerance and self-discovery. “I encourage my students to challenge themselves, be curious, take risks, think critically, collaborate effectively, and share and respect diverse perspectives,” she notes. “I am especially proud of our French Exchange Program founded in 1989 between Baldwin and Notre-Dame de Mongré School in Villefranche-sur-Saône, France.” This program is a part of Baldwin’s curriculum and the highlight of students’ French studies. Every other year, Grade 10 - 11 students have the opportunity to develop effective communication competence and interact with cultural understanding by traveling to France during spring break and experiencing firsthand all they have been learning in class through French language, culture, history and literature. The following year, we host the French students at Baldwin. Our students and their French correspondents often develop fond memories and enduring friendships. 

 

For Josiane, the "love of learning" is central to her daily experience, whether through teaching or engaging in professional development, and she works to cultivate this passion in both her students and colleagues. Josiane believes, “We must continue cultivating this ‘esprit de corps’ — a sense of pride — through all the learning opportunities offered to us in this inclusive community.”

 

 

MS Dean of Students, Spanish Teacher

The Ohio State University - MEd, BA

SUNY Morrisville - AA

 

In addition to being the Middle School Dean of Students, Gabbie teaches 7th grade Spanish 1A, helping students build a strong foundation in the language while also expanding their understanding of the diverse cultures within the Spanish-speaking world. She explains, "This class gives our students a solid foundation of the language while learning about the many cultures of the Spanish-speaking world beyond food and holidays." Through her teaching, she fosters a broader cultural awareness and encourages students to think critically about the world around them.

 

Her decision to become a teacher stemmed from a desire to impact children's lives, particularly through language education positively. "I chose Spanish specifically because growing up, speaking it was stigmatized, and I wanted to challenge that narrative by sharing my beautiful language and culture," she explains. In addition to language proficiency and the five C’s of language learning - communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and community - her students practice key skills such as empathy and critical thinking, particularly regarding the complex history of the Spanish-speaking world. For her, the theme of "Love of Learning" resonates deeply. She shares, "I love learning about ways to make an impact for the betterment of marginalized communities through experiences with social justice and belonging." This passion for social change and learning drives her daily teaching approach.

 

 

Spanish Teacher

Universidad de Barcelona - MA

Syracuse University - BFA

Parsons School of Design - AS

 

Tanya teaches Spanish 2, Honors Spanish 3 and 4, and Independent Study Spanish. A hands-on teacher, she is deeply invested in each student's learning, adapting her approach to meet their individual needs. As she explains, “I care about the learning of each one of my students at their level,” and she strives to create an environment where every student can grow.

 

Tanya’s journey into teaching was a shift from a career in design, which began after she did some substitute teaching in Florida. “This career found me,” she says, reflecting on how she eventually completed a master’s degree in teaching Spanish as a second language. She is fascinated by her students’ development process, often describing them as “flower buds” who “bloom” by the end of the year. In her classroom, students feel comfortable writing, listening and speaking in Spanish while learning about cultural differences between the U.S. and Spanish-speaking countries. Tanya emphasizes that “practice makes it better,” and believes “we always should learn from our mistakes.” Her passion for teaching and her commitment to each student’s progress create a safe, supportive environment for everyone to improve and thrive.

 

 

French Teacher

Institut Universitaire de Formation des Maîtres of Amiens/Orléans - MA

 

Betty teaches French to middle school students at Baldwin, covering grades 6 through 8. As a native French speaker who became an American citizen 10 years ago, she brings a unique cultural perspective to her classroom. Betty's goal is to teach the French language and foster an appreciation for different cultures. "By helping students develop both linguistic skills and global awareness," she explains, "I aim to enrich our community by promoting understanding and preparing them for more advanced studies." Her teaching approach emphasizes cultural awareness alongside language proficiency, offering students a broader view of the world.

 

Initially studying engineering, Betty soon realized that path wasn’t right for her. She switched careers and pursued education in France, where she discovered her true passion for teaching. "My goal has always been to contribute to society by helping students develop a sense of rigor in their learning process, build confidence in their ability to learn and cultivate a love for learning," she shares. Teaching a world language allows her to share communication skills and the cultural richness that comes with it. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to guide students on their journey of growth, both academically and personally,” she notes. In her French classes, students learn effective study methods, build confidence through speaking exercises like popular French songs, and develop better learning habits, all while deepening their connection to the language.

 

 

Spanish Teacher

St Joseph’s University - MEd

University of Michigan - BA

 

Dara is a middle school Spanish teacher at Baldwin, where she teaches 6th and 8th grades. She hopes that her teaching brings "joy, knowledge and cultural understanding" to the community, helping students develop both language skills and a greater appreciation for the world around them. Dara's decision to become a Spanish teacher was influenced by her experiences teaching English in Costa Rica and traveling through the Spanish-speaking world. "I treasured the ability to speak the language while living and learning among other cultures," she explains. It became clear to her that sharing her knowledge of Spanish and its diverse cultures was a meaningful way to "pay it forward" and offer the same opportunities to her students.

In her classroom, Dara’s students learn more than just vocabulary and grammar. They develop essential skills like listening, empathy and open-mindedness, becoming more sensitive to different cultures and perspectives. "They learn to listen, to be open and sensitive about different cultures and to express themselves in a new way," she says. Regarding this year’s theme, “Love of Learning,” Dara believes it means actively listening to her students’ needs and finding ways to keep them engaged and supported. "It means seeking opportunities to learn and grow and share what I learn with my students," she explains. By incorporating music and joy into her lessons, Dara strives to create a classroom environment where learning is both fun and meaningful.

 

 

Lower School Spanish Teacher

La Salle University - MA

Temple University - BA

Anniya is the Lower School Spanish teacher at Baldwin, responsible for teaching Pre-K through 5th grade Spanish. Her role is to create a cultural learning experience for younger students, introducing them to the Spanish language and preparing them for future studies in middle and upper school. "I aim to give students a strong foundation in the language, while also fostering an appreciation for the rich diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures," she explains. Anniya’s own passion for language learning began in 6th grade when she started studying Spanish, continuing through high school and college. Her deep connection to the language grew during her time living and attending college at La Una in Costa Rica, where she gained firsthand knowledge of the culture.

In her classroom, Anniya emphasizes not only language skills but also the importance of understanding and appreciating cultural differences. "My students not only receive language skills in Spanish, but also learn the importance of understanding cultures that may be different from their own," she shares. Students explore the many countries where Spanish is spoken, even learning about regions they may have never heard of before. Anniya believes that understanding the uniqueness of each place in the world enriches their learning experience. For Anniya, "love of learning" means continually growing and discovering new things every day, whether through research or engaging with her students about their personal cultures and interests. "Learning doesn’t stop when we become adults — it just begins," she says, reflecting on her commitment to lifelong learning and curiosity.


Martha Ince
Spanish Teacher
University of Salamanca - Spain – MA
The Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, Ecuador - BS

 

Martha teaches Spanish 1, Honors Spanish 2 and AT Spanish 5 this year. Her teaching approach aims not only to help students develop their language skills but also to broaden their understanding of the world. As she explains, "Through my practice, I aim at not only helping students develop their language but also gain a wider perspective of the world by making connections between different aspects of society." Martha believes that learning a world language goes beyond vocabulary and grammar, fostering global awareness and critical thinking in students.

 

Martha’s decision to teach was driven by a desire to contribute to society by helping students become more open-minded and capable of critically analyzing their surroundings. "I think society needs more open-minded people who are equipped to look at their surroundings with a critical eye," she says. By teaching her native language and sharing various aspects of her culture, Martha strives to guide students in their journey toward becoming thoughtful, engaged global citizens. Her students also develop essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance, along with enhanced memory, listening skills and cultural awareness. Reflecting on the "Love of Learning" theme, Martha shares that her natural curiosity and broad intellectual interests align with this year’s focus. "I am frequently engaging with materials about a variety of topics, and many times, those materials end up supporting the curriculums of the courses I teach," she says, highlighting how her passion for learning enriches her teaching.

 

 

Grade 7 Dean, Latin Teacher

University of Colorado at Boulder - MA

Franklin and Marshall College - BA

 

Annie teaches various Latin courses at Baldwin, including Latin Foundations (6th grade), Latin 1B (8th grade), Latin 1, Latin 3 and Introduction to Ancient Greek. Her role allows her to teach every 6th grader at Baldwin, as Latin is required at that level. Annie particularly enjoys introducing students to a language they likely haven’t encountered before, noting, "They get to meet a language that you really only engage with via reading." She works to ease the transition for younger students from lower school to more advanced language study. Annie also teaches the highest level of language scholars — seniors in Introduction to Ancient Greek. This class, reserved for students who often study a third language, provides an opportunity to work with those who truly love linguistics. She finds teaching both ends of the language learning spectrum particularly rewarding.

 

Annie's decision to become a teacher stemmed from her passion for Latin, which she developed during college. Her studies in Latin provided her with opportunities to travel to Italy and Greece, further fueling her love for the language. "I loved Latin in college, and I got many opportunities to travel to Italy and Greece through my studies, which kept me taking more classes," she explains. Annie initially pursued grad school to earn a PhD, but it was during her time as a teaching assistant that she discovered her true calling. "I discovered that my favorite parts of my day were the times when I was teaching," she reflects, leading her to shift focus and pursue a teaching career in Latin.

 

In her Latin classes, students learn much more than vocabulary. "Students learn a lot of decoding skills when they take Latin," Annie says, emphasizing the importance of pattern recognition and word breakdown. They gain vocabulary and more profound analytical skills as they progress, learning to interpret words by dissecting their components. Additionally, students are exposed to some of Western culture's most influential literature and thought. By the time students reach advanced courses, they read authentic texts, including works by Julius Caesar, some 2,000 years old. "They get to engage in really authentic texts through their study of the language," Annie explains. Regarding this year's theme, "Love of Learning," Annie reflects that her passion for Latin was fueled by its ability to connect with various other subjects. "It touches on so many other subjects, and I enjoyed every subject in school," she says. Latin, with its regular patterns and its connection to history, literature, mathematics, philosophy and science, feels "wide open," offering endless opportunities for intellectual exploration.

 

 

Spanish Teacher

Yale University - MPhil

Smith College - BA

 

Diana is an Upper School Spanish teacher at Baldwin and serves as the Coordinator of the Spanish Program. She is currently teaching Spanish 3, 4 and 5, and an Independent Study, with previous experience across a range of courses and levels, from middle school through AT Spanish 5. In addition to her teaching role, Diana is the faculty advisor for El Pimiento, the Spanish literary magazine, and this year, she is co-organizing the Upper School trip to Spain with Tanya Berrios. Diana’s dedication to the Spanish program extends beyond the classroom, as she works to foster a deeper cultural and linguistic understanding in her students.

 

From a young age, Diana knew she wanted to be a teacher, and her passion for the humanities led her to pursue a career in education. "I don’t think I ever seriously considered any other profession," she says. Initially, she didn’t foresee becoming a Spanish major, but it was her first college course in Spanish and Latin American literature that genuinely captured her interest. "I fell in love with the poetry of Rosalía de Castro, the plays of Federico García Lorca and the novels of Miguel de Unamuno and Benito Pérez Galdós," Diana recalls, and decided during the fall of her freshman year to major in Spanish. In her Spanish curriculum, Diana integrates history and culture alongside grammar and vocabulary, introducing students to the traditions, customs, artists, athletes and historical figures of the Spanish-speaking world. "As they study grammar and vocabulary, the students also learn about the culture," she explains. Her students engage in individual and group projects, such as preparing oral presentations on global warming and climate change in Spain and Latin America. In advanced courses, they read literary selections, write analytical essays and complete creative assignments. Diana fosters a positive classroom environment where students feel confident in their language abilities, emphasizing that making mistakes is part of the learning process. "Learning a world language can be a daunting process," she says, "and I want my students to know that they are making progress and to have confidence in their language skills."

 

 

US Dean of Students, French Teacher

La Sorbonne, Paris, France - MA, BA

 

Elisabeth teaches Honors French 4 at Baldwin and serves as Dean of Students. In her teaching, she emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and connecting the French language and culture to subjects such as history, literature, art and philosophy. "I strive to create a classroom environment that fosters interdisciplinary learning," Elisabeth explains, encouraging students to approach the world with curiosity and openness. By doing so, her students deepen their understanding of the language and develop critical thinking skills and strong study habits. Elisabeth’s ultimate goal is to help students become thoughtful, engaged citizens of the world while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within the broader school community.

 

Elisabeth’s journey to teaching was unexpected but fulfilling. Initially trained as an art historian, she always wanted to work with teenagers and share the joy of learning. "Teaching French allows me to combine my passion for philosophy, literature, poetry and history — all subjects that ignite curiosity and critical thinking," she says. Elisabeth finds great satisfaction in guiding students through learning a world language and culture, which she sees as a powerful tool for broadening perspectives. "Learning a world language and culture offers an invaluable opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of their language while gaining fresh perspectives on the world," she notes.

 

Studying a world language at Baldwin offers students various valuable skills. Elisabeth explains that students strengthen their memorization, public speaking and interpersonal communication while fostering tolerance and cultural understanding. "Through group work and collaborative activities, students build teamwork skills and learn to think outside the box," she says. Language learning also encourages students to reflect on their own identity, values and culture, while exploring the literature, history and art of the countries studied. Elisabeth believes that world language classes are inherently interdisciplinary and show students how language connects to every aspect of life. "Ultimately, learning a language is more than just acquiring vocabulary; it offers a new way of thinking and interacting with the world," she concludes.

 

For Elisabeth, the "Love of Learning" means staying curious and continually seeking new knowledge. She nurtures this through daily habits, such as reading multiple books, listening to thought-provoking podcasts, and refining her writing and grammar skills. "I learn so much from my discussions with students, colleagues, and families," she says, noting how these interactions deepen her understanding and inspire her teaching. These practices fuel her curiosity and help bring fresh ideas and perspectives into the classroom.

           

 

Latin Teacher

Florida State University - MA

Binghamton University - BA

 

Patricia teaches Latin Foundations (6th grade) and Latin IA (7th grade) in the middle school, while also offering Latin 2, Latin 4 (Epic Poetry) and AT Latin 5 (Lyric Poetry) in the upper school. This year, she is also guiding an independent study student through the work of Lucretius. Patricia’s passion for teaching Classics is driven by a desire to show young women that the field of Classics, traditionally dominated by men, "not only has room for them but also greatly benefits from their diverse perspectives." As a teacher, she hopes to inspire her students, especially young women, to explore the rich history of Latin and its relevance in the modern world.

 

Studying Latin at Baldwin helps students develop critical thinking and analysis skills. Patricia explains that, as students progress through the language, they must learn to interpret complex sentences and tackle unadapted texts, including poetry and prose. "These skills will aid them in whatever future career they pursue," she notes, even if they never read another passage of Latin after leaving Baldwin. For Patricia, "Love of Learning" is central to her daily practice. She constantly seeks to deepen her knowledge of Latin and the Roman world while striving to make her classes engaging. "I often learn from my students too when they ask me insightful questions," she says, noting how these moments push her to explore new ideas and uncover answers, keeping her and her students excited to learn each day.

 

 

French Teacher

Bryn Mawr College - MA, BA

 

Katherine teaches Upper School French 1, 2 and 3, as well as Honors 2, working with students at the beginning stages of learning French and preparing them for the literary journey ahead with Madame Mariette and Madame Seliverstoff in the upper levels. She has always had a knack for languages and began helping teach French while she was in high school, which sparked her passion for teaching. Katherine shares, "Helping somebody understand a concept and seeing that 'click' is something I value greatly." The progress she witnesses in her students over the course of a year or two is deeply rewarding to her, as she sees them grow and develop confidence in the language.

 

In her French classes, Katherine emphasizes the interconnectedness between languages, noting that "the relationship between English and French is symbiotic." Students not only strengthen their understanding of French grammar but also enhance their relationship with English, gaining skills in vocabulary inference and sentence analysis. Additionally, they explore diverse cultures, customs and art, broadening their horizons. Katherine believes that learning a language opens both professional and social doors, enabling individuals to engage with people and art they might have otherwise missed. "Even if our students do not pursue a world language as a career, I hope they can reap the benefits of accessing a whole new part of our world," she reflects, underscoring her belief in the profound impact language learning can have on personal growth and empathy.

 

 

Lower School French Teacher

MEDEA University - Algeria - MA, BS

 

Katia is the Lower School French teacher at Baldwin, working with students from Pre-K to Grade 5. She views her role as an opportunity to introduce young learners to the beauty of the French language and culture, emphasizing that learning a language is not just about vocabulary and grammar but also about broadening perspectives. Katia says, "By teaching French, I help students develop an appreciation for diversity and global connections at an early age." She believes that these early lessons are vital in shaping children into curious, empathetic and open-minded citizens who will thrive in a multicultural world.

 

Growing up speaking French and other languages, Katia witnessed firsthand how language bridges cultures and opens doors to new worlds. She shares, "I’ve always been driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact on young people’s lives," and this passion led her to pursue language teaching. She recalls how she enjoyed helping peers with their French pronunciation and assignments in high school, which ignited her love for teaching. "Witnessing the excitement when a student masters a new concept or gains confidence in their abilities is deeply rewarding," Katia adds, highlighting her motivation to guide students through their learning journeys.

 

In her classes, Katia emphasizes that learning a language goes beyond acquisition and fosters critical thinking, creativity and emotional intelligence. She explains, "My students learn to think outside the box when they can’t find the exact word they need and find alternative ways to express themselves." Through language learning, students build resilience, develop empathy and gain a broader cultural perspective.

 

“My personal journey with learning English is one of the most profound examples of how this love of learning has shaped my life.” Katia explains. “Three years ago, when I moved to the United States, I was determined to learn English and communicate fluently within a year. It wasn’t an easy goal, but my love of learning drove me forward. I immersed myself in the language, practiced relentlessly and refused to let mistakes hold me back. In less than a year, I achieved fluency — a milestone that profoundly impacted my personal and professional life. It opened doors to meaningful connections, allowing me to communicate, share and build relationships in a way I couldn’t before. But my love of learning doesn’t stop with language — it has been a guiding force in my life for over a decade, inspiring me to explore new horizons and discover different parts of the world.” As a teacher, she strives to share this same passion with her students, equipping them with knowledge and a mindset that will empower them for a lifetime.