By Addison Schwing – News & Editorial Editor

Jonathan Law High School welcomed Spanish teacher Ms. Lopes to the community this year. Before Lopes came to Law, she studied Finance and Spanish at Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusets, and taught in Boston for 14 years. Lopes is a member of the World Language Department and teaches Spanish. News and Editorial Editor Addison Schwing reached out to Lopes to learn more about both herself and her experiences at Law. 

Addison Schwing: Why did you decide to come to Law to teach?

Ms. Lopes: I moved from Boston to be closer to my sister, because she’s going to watch my babies, and Law came to me as a good opportunity to teach.

AS: How has the start of the year been for you?

ML: I would say “great.” There is a definite sense of community here, and everyone is super supportive and helpful. Both students and staff have been welcoming and supportive by helping me throughout the day, whether it be showing me where my classroom is, smiling in the hall, or just checking in with me to see how my day is going.

AS: What are you looking forward to this year?

ML: I’m looking forward to the sports games and plays, and check out the students and their talents. I hope to build relationships with my students, and together, I hope to progress their Spanish. 

AS: What is your philosophy as a teacher? 

ML: I believe that one learns new things every day. I teach Spanish because I learn new things every day, be it with the language, or the culture, and so on. I also believe that student-teacher relationships are essential. I believe that the student-teacher relationship is important because establishing positive relationships allows for a safe environment where students feel cared for and supported. And, I feel like this helps students take risks in the classroom that can benefit their learning.

AS: If you could give one bit of advice to your students, what would it be?

ML: The most important things for learning are to practice, be persistent, and take risks.