Teacher Appreciation: Señora Vallazza

By Nkem Ebhaleme

Introduction

Picking a favorite class at ASU Prep Digital is tough, but Spanish III truly stands out! From the first lesson, I was hooked. What makes this advanced class so special isn’t just diving into more complex grammar and tenses, but how the teacher, Señora Vallazza, runs the class. It’s an incredibly engaging, supportive environment where making mistakes is actually encouraged. I’ve chosen to spotlight this class and Señora Vallazza because they’ve transformed learning a higher-level language from a challenge into a rewarding adventure.

Part 1 – My Perspective

The class is Spanish III, and it’s been an incredible journey into advanced language and culture. We do a variety of work that pushes my skills, including complex speaking practice and recordings (using different tenses), in-depth cultural research, and some really creative projects. For instance, we’ve had assignments that involve recording ourselves in pretend situations or doing research on a specific Latin American restaurant.

I’ve gained more than just advanced vocabulary; I’ve developed crucial critical thinking skills and a much deeper understanding of diverse Spanish-speaking cultures. Being able to hold a more fluent conversation is a huge confidence booster! I highly recommend Spanish III to other students because Señora Vallazza creates a low-stress, high-engagement environment where she meets us where we are and helps us grow. It’s the perfect place to truly solidify your language skills.

Part 2 – Teacher Interview with Señora Vallazza

I had the chance to ask Señora Vallazza a few questions about her experience teaching this course:

Q: What do you love most about teaching this course?

A: “I love teaching Spanish and I have taught Spanish for the last 18 years. I enjoy teaching students the difference and similarities between English and Spanish. It’s also neat to show them the world too.”

Q: What’s one piece of advice you give to students starting it?

A: “Realize that ‘La perfección no existe’. Perfection doesn’t exist. It’s okay to make mistakes as that’s how we learn from them.”

Q: How do you support students when they feel stuck or overwhelmed?

A: “Talk about something not related to Spanish.”

Q: What’s one project or topic students usually enjoy most?

A: “I can’t really say, but I love the Unit 14 project the best to grade!”
Reflection – Personal Growth
This class and Señora Vallazza have had a significant impact on me. The class has definitely inspired new goals and I now feel confident about pursuing my language studies further. Academically, Señora Vallazza helps me grow by consistently emphasizing that effort is more important than perfection, which has reduced my anxiety about assignments across all my classes. Personally, her simple advice, “Talk about something not related to Spanish,” when I’m overwhelmed, has taught me the importance of taking short mental breaks to reset, a valuable lesson for life both in and out of school.
Conclusion – Encouragement
If you’re scrolling through the course catalog looking for a great class, and you have the prerequisites, do yourself a favor and try Spanish III with Señora Vallazza! It’s one of those classes that doesn’t just teach you a subject, it teaches you how to learn and grow with confidence.