Meet the DECTFL Board members
Andea LaCombe: I believe we as language teachers have the unique opportunity to capture the minds and hearts of students. Learning a language is like learning math in some ways, requiring abstract thinking. It is like language arts, visual arts, and music in other ways, in that there is more than one way to express meaning. Learning a culture encompasses traditions, art forms, history, music, and literature. There is literally something for everyone. While the greatest goal is linguistic proficiency, in my classroom I also want to inspire, and to open doors for students, to offer them experiences that will enrich their lives as they seek to find their paths in life.
Jennifer Short: My guiding principle of teaching is to evoke in my students an appreciation for other cultures, a desire for lifelong learning, and confidence in themselves to succeed. To that end, I have attended numerous conferences and workshops such as those hosted by RCCSD, NECTFL, and ACTFL. I have served on our district's World Language Curriculum Council for the past eight years, the last six of which have been in the role of Chair. I feel blessed to work in a state that understands the need for World Language instruction and in a district with talented, dedicated professionals who have much to offer.
Martha Barrier: “A different language is a different vision of life. “ ~Federico Fellini
Jennifer Short: My guiding principle of teaching is to evoke in my students an appreciation for other cultures, a desire for lifelong learning, and confidence in themselves to succeed. To that end, I have attended numerous conferences and workshops such as those hosted by RCCSD, NECTFL, and ACTFL. I have served on our district's World Language Curriculum Council for the past eight years, the last six of which have been in the role of Chair. I feel blessed to work in a state that understands the need for World Language instruction and in a district with talented, dedicated professionals who have much to offer.
Martha Barrier: “A different language is a different vision of life. “ ~Federico Fellini