Meet our wonderful teachers

The teaching method that we have developed combines the highest level of professional excellence with the openness, humor and friendliness typical of Nicaraguan people. The vast majority of Mariposa students leave the school not only much more fluent in Spanish but also having made good friends with their teachers here. Classes are one-on-one (though we can be flexible if it suits you better). The element of relationship building is a crucial part of our work and an excellent basis for learning.

More profiles coming soon!

I like to prepare my classes in advance, although I dont speak English, that doesnt limit me to teaching and transmitting the Spanish language to my students. I am a creative person in each lesson and I try different methodology so that the student learns.I enjoy the classes with each of them to share things about my country and learn about theirs .Working at school has helped me grow professionally and personally, interact with people and have greater confidence to do my job successfully.

My favorite hobby is spending time with my family. play with my pets since I love dogs and that is why I have two: Toby and Scrapy.

Even though Iam vey young I have enough knowledge to make my student feel safe and confident when speaking ,with different dynamics ,vocabularies and games If I find a student is interested in something that’s not already in my materials, I will gladly do some research and create new activities just for that person. I enjoy helping people increase their abilities and expand their comfort zone in using Spanish outside the classroom.!

When I’m not working, Iam with my grand-parents working on the farm ,collecting fruits and vegetables that we grow ourselves .

I have worked with different professionals which has made me think about grammar, topics and conversations that they really need and work at the pace that they feel comfortable with.I am very passionate about reading, especially historical books, social problems, novels and much more also I like to draw with graphite.

I strive to provide my students with an effective framework for learning Spanish. I like to present new information and then solidify it with plenty of practice reading, writing, and speaking. I am happy to tailor my approach to each student’s preferences. I love broadening my students’ understanding of the Spanish language as well as the culture here in Nicaragua. I’m fascinated by linguistics and anthropology, and teaching has been a wonderful way for me to connect with people from all over the world. With each of my students, I enjoy sharing details of our respective native languages and societies.

In my personal life, I am happiest when spending time with my family and my new baby, practicing drawing and creative activities, playing basketball, and cultivating my small garden.

My job is to provide students with an efficient level to learn Spanish. Every student has different approaches to learning and studying. I like to be creative with games, songs, reading, especially with children.I also like to present extensive information according to each student and their interests in a fresh and natural environment as offered by the school.

I am delighted to be able to work in this school where we can share the cultures of different countries, improving their Spanish, touring the community and putting their skills into practice in the different projects that are here.

I especially like working with beginner level students because everything about Spanish is so new to them.I have little time to work here but doesnt limit me to having the necessary strategies that my students need for their spanish. I make my classes creative and with a lot of energy. We must also be patient with students who are beginners, starting from teaching basic vocabulary to fluent conversations.In each lesson, always be positive and transmit it to my students and that way I have confidence when speaking.

In my personal life, I like to spend time with my friends and family .

My ultimate goal for my students is for them to not only build their knowledge of Spanish, but also to gain the confidence to use it without doubting themselves when interacting with Spanish speakers. To ensure my lessons are challenging but not overwhelming, I continually combine new information with subject matter the student is already comfortable with. I am especially fond of employing the use of visual aids, humor, and the exchange of cultural information during lessons.

Aside from teaching Spanish, I enjoy several other career pursuits. I own a small tailoring business that designs and sews clothing for men and women. Sometimes I also work with a local doctor to provide community health services. My hobbies include playing basketball, visiting local tourist attractions, and teaching myself the basics of appliance and mechanical repair.

Our Teacher Training Program

La Mariposa requires a rigorous training period and continuing education for all of our teachers, ensuring each one is a well-qualified professional Spanish language instructor.  

Prospective candidates must complete a 140-hour intensive course, during which they learn in-depth about Spanish grammar and teaching techniques to present this information to students of all ages and levels. Additionally, they must develop a strong understanding of Nicaraguan history and the Mariposa’s community projects. By the end of the course, usually about half of the candidates demonstrate the required level of diligence and commitment to continue training.

New teachers-in-training observe a variety of other instructors interacting with students during lessons. They discuss their observations, especially regarding different learning and teaching styles. When they start giving lessons, they begin by focusing primarily on conversation. Once more experienced and confident, lessons progress to include more formal grammar as well. They consistently receive feedback from students and the head of the teacher training program, Josimar, who is always available to provide consultation and mentorship as they develop their teaching abilities.

We Believe a Good Teacher:

• Speaks clearly, modeling correct pronunciation and syllable emphasis.
• Is patient, and willing re-explain and repeat material as often as is needed.
• Uses a variety of approaches to prompt multiple ways of processing and sharing information.
• Provides frequent opportunities to practice, practice, practice.  
• Is open and responsive to feedback from students.
• Provides positive encouragement and support in the learning process.