World Languages

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...Read More ›

College applications were filed months ago and acceptance letters are on the way. April is a perfect month to have those last-minute discussions with seniors about preparing for college. Here are some possible ways to prepare your K-12 students. The post-secondary transition is often intimidating to students. Creating transition opportunities in your classroom lowers their anxiety and increases their chance of success. Reach out to local schools Contact an instructor at your local community college or university to share typical expectations and to describe the curriculum. Plan a school visit Arrange a school visit that focuses on the language learning...Read More ›

There are many places on campus to use language skills, and not all are in the Modern Language Building. Here are some places to know at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. Office of Global Strategies: OGS coordinates and supports global activities throughout the campus and abroad. It is the oversight office for the following offices. International Student and Scholar Office: The function of ISSO is to supports international students. However, ISSO often provides opportunities for international students to connect to Nebraskans. Education Abroad Office: EAO works with all departments to provide resources before, during, and after experiences abroad.

The University of Kansas is pleased to announce pre-registration for the first annual World Languages Fair to be held Saturday, October 19th, 2019. The event will bring high-school students to the Lawrence campus for a day focused on exploring world languages and cultures. Sessions will include mini-lessons in a range of languages, presentations on target cultures, and discussions of how intercultural competence can enhance different fields of study. During an extended lunch period there will also be information booths where students can learn more about language-related scholarships, study abroad opportunities, and internationally-focused student organizations on campus. The event is free...Read More ›

The American Association of Teachers of German Nebraska chapter hosted German Students’ Convention April 6, 2019 at School Middle School in Lincoln. The students competed in skits, music videos, spelling, trivia contests, poetry, cake baking, art, poster, and directed dialog. This year’s participating high schools were Bellevue East, Bellevue West, Columbus, Gretna, Lincoln East, Lincoln High, Lincoln Southeast, Millard North, Omaha Burke, and Westside. Millard North Middle School also competed. A total of 200 students participated, honoring the theme Wunderbar Together, that was established by the German Embassy. If you would like to participate next year, visit the AATG Nebraska...Read More ›

The American Association of Teachers of French Nebraska chapter hosted twenty teachers and sixty students at Camp Carol Joy Holling on March 30-31, 2019. The students choreographed and lip synced French videos. As teams, they competed in a Ratatouille-themed breakout room and various French games. The chefs prepared French meals, and the students ended the night with a bonfire and s’mores. If you would like to participate, visit the AATF Nebraska Facebook page (NATF Nebraska Association of Teachers of French) or email AATF Nebraska President Cara Heminger at caraheminger@gmail.com.

Columbus High School Spanish teacher Liliana Velasco led Columbus High Schools first Spanish Competition Day. Velasco credits her department for their work, Principal Steve Woodside for support and encouragement, and Band teacher Jeff Peabody who worked with students to co-create musical performances and to provide technical support. The event was open to any student currently enrolled in Spanish 3 or higher. Teachers submitted registration to Columbus High School. Students competed in Drama, Folk Dance, Music, Poetry, and Poster/Art. Fourteen schools registered to attend with 210 students. Unfortunately, the original event date was rescheduled due to flooding in the area. The...Read More ›

The World Language Distinguished Scholar Award recognizes Nebraska students for their leadership in language learning, commitment to language study, appreciation for cultural diversity, and communicative competence. Students were nominated by their teachers then completed a submission portfolio. High Honors Josephine Anderson Spanish Crete H.S. Teacher: Angela Wagoner Turner Blick German Fremont H.S. Teacher: Brenda Schiermeyer Alma Dimas Spanish Meridian H.S. Teacher: Maria Nieves Ruiz Garcia Miah Hoppens Spanish Ogallala H.S. Teacher: Rosa Zimmerman Sukanya Kennamthiang French Brownell Talbot School Teacher: Michael Recker Angela Kwambamba French Lincoln Southwest H.S. Teacher: Alexandra Van Zandt Nae Mae Chinese Omaha Central H.S. Teacher: Wang...Read More ›

Francophone Film and Literature Course French 4950/8956 at University of Nebraska Omaha In fall 2019, UNO will offer Francophone Film and Literature Tuesdays from 4:30-7:10 with Dr. Patrice Proulx. Some of the films to be discussed include Incendies, Persepolis, L’Ange du Goudron, and Black Girl. The course focuses on a selection of contemporary films and short readings dealing with the Caribbean, Africa, North Africa, and Quebec. One of the primary objectives is the development of critical viewing and reading skills that will allow students to reflect more productively on the social and aesthetic themes in these works. Critical issues to...Read More ›

The following positions are posted on the Teach in Nebraska website at www.nebraskaeducationjobs.ne.gov French 9-12 (Part-time), Lincoln Pius X Catholic High School, Lincoln French 9-12, Duchesne Academy, Omaha German 7-8, Westside Community Schools, Omaha Spanish 1-12, Lindsay Holy Family, Lindsay Spanish 7-12, Ansley Public Schools, Ansley Spanish 7-12, High Plains Community Schools, Polk Spanish 7-12, Maxwell Public Schools, Maxwell Spanish 7-12, Morrill Public Schools, Morrill Spanish 7-12, St. Mary’s Catholic School, O’Neill Spanish 9-12, Arthur County Schools, Arthur Spanish 9-12, Falls City Public Schools, Falls City Spanish 9-12, Fillmore Central Public Schools, Geneva Spanish 9-12, Grand Island Public Schools, Grand...Read More ›