Spanish with Susan!
"a friendly stroll"
My Background and Experience
As a native of Ecuador, I was raised speaking what I consider to be a polished and beautifully structured form of Spanish. Growing up immersed in the language gave me a deep appreciation not only for correct grammar and pronunciation, but also for the cultural richness and warmth that Spanish carries. This strong linguistic foundation continues to shape the way I teach today
— with clarity, authenticity, and enthusiasm.
After immigrating to the United States, I pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Rutgers University and the University of Providence, Montana. My academic journey strengthened my analytical thinking, organization, and communication skills — qualities that later became invaluable in the classroom.
I spent eight years working in the technology industry before my husband and I chose to settle in Superior, Colorado, where we raised our two daughters, Kaitlyn and Chloe. We lived in Superior for 21 years before I recently relocated to Niwot. Raising a family in this community deepened my connection to local schools and reinforced my passion for education. As both a mother and an educator, I understand the importance of creating a supportive, engaging, and structured learning environment where students feel confident to grow.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of partnering with several respected educational institutions through Spanish with Susan. These partnerships allowed me to share my love of the Spanish language with children across different age groups and learning styles.
Previous Spanish with Susan Partners
- Dawson School
- Primrose School at the Flatirons
- Peak to Peak Charter School
- Louisville Montessori School
- Treehouse Learning (Certified Early Childhood Education)
These collaborations helped me refine my teaching approach while working alongside dedicated educators who share the same commitment to excellence in early childhood and elementary education.
Professional Teaching Experience
My formal teaching experience spans preschool through high school levels, including both classroom instruction and online learning environments.
Rocky Mountain Christian Academy (PK–5)
I provided Spanish instruction to students across multiple grade levels. My responsibilities included planning, preparing, and delivering instructional activities aligned with a structured curriculum. I focused on creating engaging lessons that encouraged participation and fostered language retention.
The Academy Charter School (K–12)
As the full-time Spanish teacher for the High School Spanish 1 program, I was responsible for lesson planning, curriculum delivery, and student assessment. I worked intentionally to cultivate a positive and motivating classroom atmosphere where students felt comfortable practicing conversational Spanish and developing foundational language skills.
Evergreen High School – Jeffco Schools
I served as a long-term substitute teacher for Spanish 1 and Spanish 2. During this time, I planned and delivered structured instruction in an online format, ensuring continuity of learning and maintaining academic standards despite the remote setting.
Montessori School at Interlocken (March 2007 – August 2011)
As a full-time lead Spanish teacher in an early childhood education environment, I had the opportunity to build a Spanish program from the ground up. Over four years, I established the curriculum, implemented engaging language-learning strategies, and integrated Spanish naturally into the Montessori philosophy. This experience strengthened my ability to design developmentally appropriate lessons that nurture curiosity and confidence in young learners.
Elementary Spanish Program (ESP)
Within the Boulder Valley School District, I served as the lead Spanish teacher for after-school programs at Fireside Elementary, Superior Elementary, and Monarch (September 2007 – May 2009). These programs were designed to introduce elementary students to Spanish in a fun, interactive setting while reinforcing vocabulary and conversational basics.
Broomfield Academy
As a substitute Spanish teacher in a private elementary school setting, I provided instruction aligned with the school’s established curriculum. My role required flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to maintain continuity in students’ learning experiences.
Throughout my career, my goal has remained consistent: to make learning Spanish enjoyable, structured, and meaningful. I believe that language learning should build confidence while opening doors to cultural understanding and global connection. Whether teaching preschoolers their first Spanish words or guiding high school students through foundational grammar, I am dedicated to helping each student succeed with patience, professionalism, and passion.
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