Staff Spotlight: Rocio Laorden Baeza

Rocio Laorden Baeza teaches Spanish to students ages 3 years old-4th grade and believes learning a new language from a young age can be a fun and rewarding experience that enhances cognitive development and cultural understanding.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Your background, your interests, your
dreams, and your hobbies.

I am a former flight attendant with over a decade of experience in the airline industry. During my time as a flight attendant, I had the opportunity to work with people from all over the world, and I enjoyed learning about their cultures and languages.

In addition to my work in the airline industry, I also have a passion for language. I have experience translating training and safety manuals, and I love sharing my knowledge and appreciation of different languages with others. Whether it's through language classes or informal conversation, I enjoy helping people learn and appreciate the beauty of different languages.

Outside of work, I enjoy drawing and creating art. Art is a great way for me to relax and express my creativity.

Why is it important to learn a World Language during the school-age years?
Learning a new language from a young age can be a fun and rewarding experience that enhances cognitive development and cultural understanding. Research suggests that children who learn a second language have better memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Plus, learning a new language allows children to explore new cultures and perspectives, which can broaden their horizons and help them connect with people from all over the world.

With the world becoming increasingly globalized, developing language skills early on can be a valuable asset that opens up new opportunities and experiences for children.

What is the most important life lesson you'd like to share with your students? 

Traveling to different countries is like going on an adventure! When we visit other places, we get to see new things, eat different foods, and meet new people. One of the coolest things about traveling is learning new languages. By learning the language of the country we visit, we can talk to locals, make new friends, and learn about their culture. It's like solving a puzzle - the more we know about the language, the more we understand about the people and their customs.

In the classroom, we can also explore different countries and cultures by learning about their language and traditions. We can read books, watch videos, and talk to people from other countries. By doing this, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us, and learn to be respectful and kind to people who are different from us.

The lesson here is that exploring the world and learning new things can be a lot of fun, and it also helps us to be more open-minded and understanding. By learning about different cultures, we can become more empathetic and develop important skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. Who knows, we might even inspire others to explore the world and learn something new!

What would you tell a prospective family about the World Language program at WSM?

At our school, your children will have the chance to learn both French and Spanish - two of the most widely spoken languages in the world! We're passionate about providing a nurturing and supportive environment where your children can develop their language skills and a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of both languages. Learning a second language at a young age is a proven way to enhance cognitive development, improve memory and problem-solving skills, and foster greater cultural understanding.

We believe in the value of a well-rounded education that goes beyond just language instruction. Your children will have the opportunity to explore their passions, develop their talents, and make lasting friendships with other students who share their interests. We're excited to welcome your children to our community, where they can learn, grow, and thrive in a warm and supportive environment. We believe that learning should be fun and engaging, and we can't wait to share our passion for language and culture with your family!
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West Side Montessori is an independent, accredited Montessori school educating children 13 months through 8th grade (preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, and middle school). We are one of the leading private schools in Toledo and the nation.

WSM does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic origin, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability in the administration of its admission policy, educational policy, or any school-administered program.