Caitlin Shelman

​School: St. Ignatius High School
Language(s) Taught: Spanish
Years of Experience: 18 years total (7 teaching HS Spanish)
​Education: BA in Fine Art with a Minor in Spanish (University of Oregon), MEd in Bilingual Education (Portland State University)

What is the most rewarding part of your career as a language teacher? 
Many of my students haven't traveled or been exposed to different cultures around the world. I love opening doors for students to explore beyond their comfort zones and create meaningful connections with others.
What is one personal or professional goal that you have for yourself, your school or your department? 
I want to climb more mountains in the Mission range and continue to build authentic opportunities in Spanish for my students.
What is one of your favorite travel experiences?
Last year we took our two kids to Mexico for Christmas and stayed in Sayulita. It was their first time outside of the US. My son who doesn't speak Spanish begged to learn enough phrases to be able to run all our daily errands around town on his own. My daughter loved taking a secret path through a colorful graveyard to a protected beach where she could jump the waves with local kids.
Do you have any advice for other world language teachers?
Teaching a world language in Montana is tricky because it is an elective and it is also really hard. I try to balance an academically challenging curriculum with fun, culturally relevant experiences such as cooking, dancing, singing and sports to keep students engaged.