Kaleb graduated early from the University of West Georgia, majoring in Spanish Language and Literature, and then began graduate school which he will finish in December of 2025. A lifelong learner, he then plans to continue his studies for an Education Specialist Degree (EdS) in Spanish Education. He’s already in the classroom teaching high school Spanish!
Some Fun Facts About Kaleb
- Theme Song: Voltare – Gipsy Kings
- Favorite Word in Another Language: Sacapuntas– pencil sharpener
- Study Abroad: Madrid, Spain; Heredia, Costa Rica, and Puerto Rico
What are you most excited about when you think of your future classroom?
I am already in the classroom starting year 3 and what still excites me is being able to offer students a window into a whole new world or experiences and opportunities.
What activities or experiences would you say have most prepared you to enter the classroom or profession?
Since starting my teaching career I have been a regular conference goer and out of everything, these have been some of the most incredible experiences being able to meet and network with other language educators and learn from some of the absolute best in our field.
What advice or message would you like to share with fellow future language educators?
Get connected! Do not just stay inside the four walls of your classroom. Be vulnerable, take a risk and go to conferences, meet people in the field.
What has most surprised you (thus far) about language teaching?
I’m surprised by how differently the students act when in Spanish class. After talking with several colleagues, I see a completely different (better) side of many of my students and I truly think it's because we start off with the basics on the language and are able to build relationships that way. Language classes are SO different from other content areas and the kids recognize that and they really do let loose and have fun.
What has been the impact of the LCF Teacher Scholarship Program on your experience becoming a language teacher?
The most impactful experience I had was being sponsored by Vista to attend the 2024 ACTFL Convention in Philadelphia. It was my first ACTFL Convention, and it was one of the best experiences I have had.
You’re invited!
- Explore the Teacher Scholarship Program and refer aspiring teachers in your network.
- Hear reflections from Kaleb and fellow graduates in a short video!
- Share your #LanguageDream on social media @LangConnectsFdn.