In year 15 of the school being open, there are 15 original staff members left. Spanish teacher Anna Maki-Birchler is one of the last 15.
Staley Original: Anna Maki-Birchler
15 Original Staff Members Left In School's 15th Year
Spanish teacher Anna Maki-Birchler has taught language classes at the school since the beginning. Spanish III, IV and V have been her classes since the start.
Though the proficiency levels of each class are different, Maki-Birchler said she loved each of the classes for different reasons.
“I love Spanish III so much because it’s the first time that they really start to be able to communicate. To see the joy in the ability,” Maki-Birchler said. “There’s such a huge amount of growth in Spanish III. In Spanish IV, instead of growing up, I see such growth in depth. In Spanish V I’ve had these kids for three years. They are very much like my own.”
Her students learned about different holidays, stories and traditions of Spanish culture. Maki-Birchler said this broadening of horizons was something she valued.
“Watching how perspectives change of the world, that is the most rewarding,” Maki-Birchler said.
The ability to connect with others was something Maki-Birchler emphasized the value of as well.
“When a student tells me for the first time she was able to have an in-depth conversation with her grandma, that’s what it’s all about. If someone can communicate with a loved one like that, that’s everything.”
