TEC Student of the Month Award

With an infectiously upbeat attitude, Reed’s presence inspires all around him to adopt a rosier view of life. Since retiring from his career as a civil engineer, he has pursued learning the Spanish language with remarkable intent, utilizing a winning combination of group and private classes at Tierra, self-study, and immersion abroad. Motivated in part by his desire to explore the Spanish-speaking world, this year he enjoyed several weeks of studying Spanish in the Basque city of San Sebastián in northern Spain. Always up for a challenge, Reed is comfortable in environments that push his skill level and rises to the occasion with grace.  His enthusiasm for Spanish and commitment to learning shine through in every activity, assignment, and conversation, making Reed a model student we’re delighted to have in the Tierra community.

With a keen interest in language and a dry sense of humor, Mary approaches learning Spanish with creativity and determination. An early childhood educator who helps kids with special needs, Mary’s dedication to her work is the principal force that motivates her to become fluent in Spanish. Inquisitive and thorough, she investigates the nature of Spanish structure, asking pertinent questions that bring clarity to the topic at hand. In writing assignments, her focus and commitment shine through as she imaginatively employs the communicative tools she’s learned thus far. We congratulate Mary for the progress she’s made and for her goal of using her Spanish abilities to make school a more welcoming place for her young students and their families.

Driven in his quest towards fluency in Spanish, Mark’s dedication and inspiring community work make him a true asset to the Tierra community. An attorney who focuses his practice on protecting workers and consumers from fraud, discrimination, and illegal employment practices, he has positively impacted the lives of many in the region in his tireless fight for justice. He takes advantage of his language skills to communicate with his Spanish-speaking clients, as well as with his multi-cultural family. Endowed with a great sense of humor and fascinated by the diverse cultures of Latin America, Mark’s warmth and curiosity enrich Spanish class  for everyone.