Meet Your NILA Board: Vice President Katy Cattlett

Katy Cattlett, Vice President
Supervisor of Dual Language and World Languages
Omaha Public Schools
katy.cattlett@ops.org

What was your motivation to become a language teacher?
My path to becoming a language teacher was unexpected. Originally, I wanted to teach English as a Second Language. My university required extensive coursework in a language other than English and I chose to study Spanish in order to hopefully communicate with my future students’ families. Eventually, I became bilingual and started teaching in bilingual programs. I found dual language and found my passion!
In five words or less, describe your classroom approach.
Enriched education for all!
What power do you find in speaking another language?
I have authentic access to others’ perspectives and experiences. With that access comes great responsibility. It is my responsibility to treasure the gift of a language that has opened so many doors for me. I must use this gift to increase equity for all.