2024 SCOLT Awards Booklet

DR. KE PENG 2023 SCOLT TEACHER

OF THE YEAR

Dr. Ke Peng is the Director of the Chinese Flagship Program and professor of Chinese at Western Kentucky University. She teaches modern and classical Chinese language classes at all levels, and offers courses in Second Language Acquisition and Teaching Methods of Foreign Languages to both undergraduate and graduate pre-service teachers. She also offers content courses on Chinese culture, history, and literary Chinese at the advanced to superior level. Her research interests include second language acquisition at the syntaxsemantics interface, Chinese literacy development and teacher training. In addition to building a proficiency-based curriculum and helping students achieve the targeted learning outcomes with performance-oriented instruments, her ultimate mission is to serve and support students to make massive and transformational life changes through holistic learning and intercultural experiences. Dr. Peng has strong leadership skills and program development experience backed with massive outreach and recruitment endeavors, high-impact student engagement and record of solid retention rates. Dr. Peng is a dedicated teacher trainer. She received the Kentucky World Language Association (KWLA) 2022 Outstanding Teacher of the Year.

SCOLT WORLD LANGUAGES TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

2023: Ke Peng, KY

2022: Claudia Elliott, FL

2021: Jenniffer Whyte, AL

2020: Elena Kamenetsky, KY*

2019: Lisa Worthington-Groce, NC

2018: Heidi Trude, VA

2017: Brenna Reinhart Byrd, KY

2016: Laura Roché Youngworth, KY

2015: Leni Bronstein, VA

2014: Pamela Reynolds, AR

2013: Robert Patrick, GA

2012: Thomas Soth, NC

2011: Lisa Podbilski, FL

2010: Clarissa Adams-Fletcher, GA*

2009: Linda Zins-Adams, KY

2008: Carmen Scoggins, NC

2007: Juan Carlos Morales, FL

2006: Tracy Veler Knick, FL

2005: Ken Stewart, NC*

*selected ACTFL National Language Teacher of the Year

2024 SCOLT TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOmiNEES

A

LABA m A

BRANDON COLE

Spanish Teacher, Spain Park High School, Birmingham, AL

Brandon Cole’s passion for Spanish began with his first Spanish class in ninth grade. He holds a BS in Education from The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa and an MA in Education from The University of Alabama at Birmingham and is certified to teach both Spanish and English as a Second Language in grades PreK4-12. Mr. Cole has experience teaching all levels of Spanish, 1 to 5, including both Advanced Placement Spanish Language & Culture as well as Advanced Placement Spanish Literature and Culture. In 2022-23, he served on the Instructional Leadership Team at Spain Park High School, where he has taught for twelve years.

“By diving fully into culture, and traveling past the tip of the cultural iceberg, learners fully understand and appreciate the 'why' of culture, which is perhaps the most important aspect."

F

LOR i DA

ANDRéS GARCíA

Spanish Teacher & World Language Department Chair, Pensacola High School, Pensacola, FL

Andrés García has a BA in Modern Languages and a BA in Piano Performance from the Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, Colombia. The study and teaching of languages has always been one of his passions. Presently, he lives in Pensacola Florida where he has taught French and Spanish in several academic institutions. Currently, he is the Chair of the World Language Department at Pensacola High School, and he is also working together with students from the IMPACTO Club at the University of Florida. This club teaches English as a second language to the Hispanic community of Gainesville, Florida. Mr. García is creating the curriculum and coaching the members of the club on how to teach English.

“Language acquisition transcends mere communication. It broadens horizons and introduces individuals to new cultures, traditions, and different ways of life around the world. ”

2024 SCOLT TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOmiNEES BERTHA DELGADiLLO

GEORG i A

Spanish Teacher, Woodville Tompkins Technical & Career High School, Savannah, GA

Bertha Delgadillo, originally from Tampico, Mexico, arrived in the U.S. at 11 facing immigration challenges. Inspired by teachers who saw her through a lens of empathy and supported her dreams, she overcame many obstacles to become a Spanish language teacher in 2006. In 2020, Bertha became a National Board Certified Teacher, and has coached colleagues who are interested in the certification. Presently, Bertha is pursuing a Doctorate in Education Innovation, focusing on Secondary Spanish Education.

“If I could summarize the value of learning languages and developing cultural competence for all learners into one word, it would be IMPACT, as the impact created by students through these skills reaches not only the people interacting or being served, but the students themselves, the community, and the world..”

KENTUCKY

LYDiA KOHLER

French Teacher, George Rogers Clark High School, Winchester, KY

Lydia Kohler grew up in rural Kentucky, where her French class was an escape from the ordinary. She received her BA in French and Education from Transylvania University, Magna Cum Laude, and her MEd from Georgetown College. Ms. Kohler attained National Board certification in 2011 and has been active on the KWLA Board since 2010. She expands her students’ horizons by leading travel to France and Canada and has led multiple trips to Carentan, Normandy.

“Cultural and linguistic studies that occur in the world language classroom help students of all backgrounds to understand that citizens of the world are different from one another, but differences are not automatically bad..”

2024

SCOLT TEACHER OF THE YEAR

NOmiNEES

DR. JERRY PARKER

Instructor of French, Spanish & World Language Education, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA

Dr. Jerry Parker serves as the Director of the Foreign Language Resource Center and Undergraduate Program Coordinator at Southeastern Louisiana University. In addition, he regularly teaches courses in French, Spanish, World Language Pedagogy, and Humanities, along with directing Student Teaching internships. Dr. Parker earned a Bachelor of Arts in French Language and Literature from Southeastern Louisiana University, a Master of Arts in French with a Bilingual Concentration in French and Spanish from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership also from Southeastern Louisiana University.

“It is my belief that bilingualism and biculturalism are necessary for current and future generations to be able to succeed in their careers and to live a fulfilling life. Being bilingual and bicultural provides advantages that many others will never experience.”

KimBERLY RENEE WATSON

Spanish Teacher, Pelahatchie High School, Brandon, MS

Kimberly Renee Watson, a World Language teacher in Rankin County School District from Raymond, Mississippi, is a district, state and regional workshop presenter, who authentically shares her experiences as a rural World Language educator in Mississippi to initiate conversations around rural education while addressing teacher retention and opening the discussion of world language programs. She is an alumna of Mississippi State University with a Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary, Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Political Sciences.

“The value of learning languages extends beyond practical advantages in international travel and career opportunities. It is a transformative journey that shapes individuals into open-minded, adaptable, and culturally sensitive global citizens. As we navigate an ever-changing world, the ability to speak multiple languages and embrace cultural diversity emerges as a powerful tool for personal growth and societal harmony.”

mi SS i SS i PP i

LOU i S i ANA

2024 SCOLT TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOmiNEES

LiSA BARTELS

French & Spanish Teacher, Dillard Drive Magnet Middle School, Raleigh, NC

Lisa Bartels received her BA in French with a minor in Spanish from Wheaton College, which opened opportunities to travel all over the world, to teach in international schools in Africa and in the Philippines, and to build bridges with international families and students in the US. Ms. Bartels later received her MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Indiana Wesleyan University and currently teaches in a Title One middle school where she founded its French program and established a Jeunes Amis du Français club.

“Looking at language through an unfamiliar lens develops an awareness that communication is more than just the sum of its parts, and helps the student become a learner (rather than simply a user) of their first language.”

KAiLEY KEELS

Spanish Teacher & WL Department Chair, Wando High School, Mt Pleasant, SC

Kailey Keels was first inspired to pursue a career in education in 2008, when she took a job teaching English in Antofagasta, Chile, through the UN's Programa Inglés Abre Puertas. Since then, she has earned a Master’s Degree in Linguistically Diverse Education. She has dedicated herself to providing quality mentorship to teachers new to the profession and close-to-practice professional development to colleagues in all stages of their teaching careers.

“Learning a language is leaving my own perspective. It’s parting with the idea that my own experience is the axis on which this world turns. It’s trying out someone else’s view…Learning a language is taking a risk. It’s eeking out an utterance, grimacing as it makes its wonky landing. It’s speaking to the soul of another. It’s interpreting that person’s truest expression… Learning a language is becoming truly educated. It’s developing empathy and pursuing common understanding."

SOU TH C AROL i NA

N ORTH C AROL i NA

2024 SCOLT TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOmiNEES

TENNESSEE

JESSiCA SExTON

French Teacher, Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High School, Nashville, TN

Jessica Sexton is a French teacher in Nashville, Tennessee. A Nashville native, she received both a BA in French Teaching and a M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision from Lipscomb University. Jessica began teaching French for Metro-Nashville Public schools in August 2004. Jessica was the president of the Tennessee World Language Teaching in 2021 and currently serves as the organization’s Historian.

“When educational policy refers to college and career readiness, I can think of no better preparation than World Language courses. This goal of quick thinking on the spot and continuing communication is essential in work environments. Language students learn effective communication and patience each day in the classroom. These soft skills allow them to thrive in settings where communication and intercultural competence is key.”

W EST Vi RG i N i A

mARiA D. "LOLA" CONTRERAS

Maria D. "Lola" Contreras, Spanish Teacher Morgantown High School, Morgantown, WV

Maria D. Contreras (Lola) was born in Tampico, México. She attended Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas and received a bachelor's degree in music. In 2000, she moved to the United States and obtained masters degrees in Secondary Education and Foreign Languages from West Virginia University (2005). She is currently a teacher at Morgantown High School, where she is also the advisor for the student chapter and the State Director of the Hispanic Honor Society.

“Language learning and building cultural competency appear unique within each individual, but I identified a common thread that defines my goals as a teacher: cultivating a mindset that is characterized by flexibility, empathy, and a joy of learning. These values translate into every aspect of life and contribute to healthy coping skills in times of change or hardship.”

OF Ex CELLENCE

DR. ERiKA S TEVENS

It is an honor to be nominated for the SCOLT Educator of Excellence Award. SCOLT has held a special place in my heart and I have been an active sponsor since I joined in 2015 and presented for the first time at the 2016 conference. I showed up without knowing anyone, but was welcomed and made new friends and connections that I treasure to this day. To be nominated for this award in recognition of my leadership in world language associations and program development including mentoring of sister institutions, as well as for my teaching is an honor. My true passion is in teaching where I try my best to expand the knowledge, skills, and talents of my students as they pursue their study of Spanish. To meet student needs, I have created communicative, asynchronous web classes as well as hybrid and livestream classes. It is only by focusing on the needs and desires of my students that I have had the further opportunities to serve the wider student population by sharing my skills and passion with other institutions, organizations, and instructors. The creation of the Spanish Certificate Program, the first community college level academic certificate program in Tennessee, came from this desire to meet the needs of my students who wanted to be able to pursue the study of Spanish while completing other degrees but could not because of financial aid restrictions. I continue to work hard to improve World Language education at WSCC and beyond.

2023 S TUDENT SCHOLARSH i P REC i P i ENTS

ELLA TAPPE

Central Arkansas Christian Schools, Little Rock, AR

Ken Stewart Future Language Educator Scholarship

KALEiGH RAY

East Coweta High School, Senoia, GA

Vista Higher Learning Future Language Educator Scholarship (K-12)

BRANDON SULLY

Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA World Languages and Cultures; Spanish Concentration

Vista Higher Learning Future Language Educator Scholarship (Higher Ed)

2024 CULTR GRANT REC i P i ENTS

LEANDRA RODRiGUEz

Leandra Rodriguez is a Spanish teacher at East Coweta Middle School in Senoia, Georgia.

KALEB HYATT

Kaleb Hyatt is a Spanish teacher at Bay Springs Middle School in Carrollton, Georgia.

YOVANA C HONG

Yovana Chong is Spanish teacher at Chapel Hill Middle School in Douglasville, Georgia.

2024 FOUNDERS AWARD W i NNER

mERED i TH W H i TE

I am honored to be the recipient of this year's Founder's Award and awestruck at the company I get to keep, both in the SCOLT region in general and among the previous recipients. Getting to work with the incredible educators across our region has been the pleasure of my career, and I am so grateful to SCOLT for the opportunities and support. I look forward to many more years together in hopes that I can give back to the profession even a fraction of what's been generously given to me in the name of enjoyable, engaging, equitable language teaching and learning.

2024 B OST i CK AWARD Wi NNERS

KALEB HYATT

Spanish Teacher, Bay Springs Middle School, Carrollton, Georgia

LEANDRA RODRiGUEz

Spanish Teacher, East Coweta Middle School, Senoia, Georgia

About DR. HER m AN BOST i CK

The Bostick Award grants two conference registrations each year at SCOLT. Always the enthusiastic spokesperson for language education and professionalism, Dr. Bostick, a SCOLT founder, made this award possible to help engage new world language teachers in the rewarding professional experience that is the SCOLT conference.

To be eligible for the Bostick Award, teachers must be in their first to fifth year(s) of teaching, dedicated to a long-term teaching commitment, have not yet attended a SCOLT conference, and demonstrate a commitment to future conference participation as part of their professional development.

PREV i OUS BOST i CK AWARD REC i P i ENTS

2023 Cayla Baker (AL)

2022 Doris Feliciano-Vega (SC) and Holly Fitterer (VA)

2021 Maria Elena Gaborov Jones (NC) and Ramiro Bautista (AL)

2019 Che King (GA) and Jessica Warner (KY)

2018 Pedro Feliciano (GA) and Sharwin Snelson (TN)

2017 Hannah Rae Joseph (AL)

2016 Josephine Bloch (NC) and Bridget Huessler (SC)

2015 Margaret Henry (MS) and Tara Goverdhan (GA)

2014 Barbara Hoover (AR) and Vanessa Shepherd (KY)

2013 Kayley Fidishun Bartlett (NC) and Jessica Garvey (AL)

2012 Dara Fickes (VA) and Sara Kolhoff (FL)

2011 Kayla Watson (TN) and Nedra Curtis (NJ)

2010 Grenedi Shamburger (LA) and Corey Evans (SC)

C ONFL i CT OF iNTEREST S TATE m ENT

In the interest of transparency for all members, SCOLT did not have any formal written policy concerning current Board members' eligibility for SCOLT awards. The SCOLT board adopted a new policy that will take effect at the end of the 2024 conference that explicitly prohibits any board member from being eligible for SCOLT Awards. The Teacher of the Year program begins at the state level and states are encouraged to ensure that their candidate is not a current SCOLT board member going forth. The SCOLT awards committee is made up of non- SCOLT board members and is completely impartial. Program Committee chair and FLAG Teacher of the Year, Bertha Delgadillo, did not take part in any discussion concerning the awards process this year.