TEC Student of the Month Award

Lindy's wholehearted dedication to learning Spanish is evident in her unceasing commitment to classes at Tierra. Her open and friendly presence has helped to create a comfortable and enjoyable dynamic among all those who have been her classmates. She exudes genuine interest in the Spanish language, and in the cultures of those who speak it, and is always willing to ask questions in order to ensure her own understanding. A retired elementary school teacher, Lindy is passionate about education and social justice: she's been putting her Spanish skills to admirable use by tutoring several Spanish-speaking children in Spanish reading and writing skills.
 

Connie possesses a unique thirst for learning, a quality reflected in her fascinating life path as well as in her dedication to mastering the Spanish language. Trained as a classical musician, she played the viola with the Oregon Symphony for over 25 years before deciding to dedicate her time to her new-found passion for underwater photography. An avid world-traveler, her adventurous spirit, natural curiosity, and openness to challenges abound in her approach to learning Spanish. Whether supporting our holiday celebrations at Tierra or using her Spanish in the Yucatan peninsula, Connie places authentic communication and community-building at the center of all her pursuits.

Lusijah emanates kindness and positive energy, her presence in the classroom contributes to a special environment of enthusiasm and camaraderie. Her natural compassion and encouraging nature play a key role in making learning Spanish more of a group endeavor, a priority which shows when she helps to organize her fellow classmates to meet outside the classroom to keep practicing. A dedicated student, Lusijah's creative responses to homework assignments show careful study and imagination. Her community work in the field of mental health here in Portland and around the world is an inspiration to us all so we're very proud to count Lusijah as a Tierra student!