Senior Reflection- How the Jenks Dual Language Program Shaped My Future
Hello! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Sophia Stunkard and I’m the current editor-in-chief for the Jenks Trojan Torch. For my last story, we were prompted to create an Op-Ed, an article in which we state an opinion about a given topic, and discuss how it has affected our everyday lives. After reflecting on my years at Jenks Public Schools, I decided to dedicate this article to a program that has changed my views on the world, created cultural awareness, and shaped me into the student I am today. Without further ado, I will be discussing my experience in the Jenks East Elementary Dual Language program, and examining how the program affected my performance in High school, enhanced my understanding of the world, and allowed me to build strong foundations for my next steps post-grad.
The Early Days
The first word that comes to my mind when recollecting my dual language days at Jenks East Elementary is friendship. This program comprised around 40 kids with whom I spent my recess, classes, and playdates throughout my first four years of schooling, which instantly created a comforting and family-oriented atmosphere to learn in. Although this hindered me from making many relationships outside of dual language, I was able to form long-lasting friendships due to the program.
After elementary school, the students of dual language turned into “World Language” students. This program, which lasted from 5th-6th grade, combined Jenks East Elementary Spanish Dual Language program ,and Jenks Southeast’s Chinese immersion program, while also welcoming a new batch of kids learning entry-level Chinese courses. The World Language program made the transition from intermediate to middle school, a lot easier while diversifying my cultural interest and allowing me to meet new students from all different backgrounds. This is where I would like to give a special shoutout to one of the most influential Spanish teachers of all time: Senor Alverez. Although intermediate school may be one of the most forgettable times of my life, Senor Alverez made every day in the classroom memorable. As a native Colombian, he emphasized the importance of teaching us a variety of Hispanic cultures, while also creating fun projects for everyone to collaborate on. Some of my favorite aspects of his class included his impeccable salsa dancin ,how he rarely spoke English in class, and how he would proudly speak and tell stories about his home country.
Middle School and High School Era
Now it’s time to move on to middle school. During this time, previous DL students could only take one Spanish elective which completely differed from our previous studies that incorporated more emphasis on learning the Spanish language. Although these years made me feel like a was learning backward in time, this feeling altered completely as I entered my freshman year of high school. During this year, I was also introduced to one of the most influential teachers throughout my high school experience, Senora Marshall. I have had the privilege of being in Senoras classroom each year of high school for Spanish 4, AP Spanish Language, AP Spanish Literature, and World Language Capstone. On my first day of freshman year, I remember being greeted with a vibrant array of banners and art all depicting the beauty of Hispanic culture, but little did I know that that room would become a sanctuary for me. In this room, I spent hours preparing for tests, having meaningful conversations with my classmates, and having a fun time all at once. There was never a dull moment in Senora’s class and I was always ready to see what exciting lesson she had planned for next. Some of my favorite moments in her class include exploring different cultures through her curated coffee bar, finding my new favorite songs through “Locura de Marzo”, a bracket-style competition in which students from around the nation listen and vote for the top Spanish song of the year, and immersing myself in unique pieces of literature like “Hombres Necios” and “El Conde Lucanor”. Even outside of the classroom, Senora Marshall has allowed me to grow as a leader through La Sociedad Honoraria Hispanic and Spanish club; both clubs that she dedicates her time and energy while also helping students prepare for AP tests all at the same time. Her hard work has inspired me throughout my formative years of high school and I encourage every underclassman to continue their endeavors in Spanish courses just so they hopefully get the chance to be in Senora Marshalls’ class one day.
La Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica officers with the best Spanish teacher, Senora Marshall
Post Graduation
Upon completing the Dual Language program, I have been awarded 17 college credits due to my scores on both the AP Spanish Language and Literature tests. With this, I plan on pursuing a double major in Law and Spanish translation, hoping to one day become an attorney.
Want to get the most out of the Language Programs and Opportunities Jenks has to offer, Here are some of my favorite tips!
If you’re interested in the Spanish language, take advantage of joining Spanish Club or La Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica (Spanish honors society)! Not only is their delicious food involved in both of these clubs, but you will also have the opportunity to play fun spanish oriented games and volunteer for local Hispanic causes! We also have French, Chinese, ASL, and Latin club available at the high school as well!
If it’s not Spanish, Invest your time in learning another language! If being exposed to a new exciting culture isn’t enough, you will definitely earn more money in whatever career you choose if you are bilingual! Jenks offers a variety of language courses so don’t miss out!