Norwood-Fontbonne Academy recently welcomed its newest Spanish teacher for 3-year-olds through fifth grade, Taylor Stabler, to expand on the curriculum with a focus on immersion. Stabler graduated from Norwood in 2006.

Stabler is fluent in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese, with a double degree in Spanish and Anthropology. She also holds a certification in English Foreign Language Teaching to Adults (Cambridge University CELTA), as well as a Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology (The Flourishing Center). Her most formative work experience was in Croix des Bouquets, Haiti at The Haitian American Caucus (HAC) where she facilitated the English language program for a village community of all levels, ages 8 to 80.

Stabler mentored undergraduate students as a writing intensive tutor and as a resident assistant at Wagner College. Out of school, she began her career as a writer and print copy editor at Bleu Magazine in New York City.

Stabler speaks primarily in Spanish during the school day as a way to infuse the NFA hallways with culture and to ignite the passion of NFA’s Spanish curriculum.

“To hear ‘¡Hola Señorita Lupita!’ throughout the day is so affirming and motivating,” Stabler said. “NFA students are unique, perceptive, and daring—natural foreign language learners.”

Norwood-Fontbonne Academy’s signature curriculum is enriched with the Spanish language beginning as a 3-year-old student. The Spanish program’s primary goal is to enhance the development of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in both English and Spanish and to promote socially conscious students in a multicultural society.