Most students take foreign language classes because it’s a way to fulfill elective credits needed to graduate, but learning another language is actually one of the most useful things you can do for yourself while you’re still in high school. Taking a world language class isn’t just for people that want to be translators or have big travel plans, but it can help every student in different ways, no matter what their life plans are.
Tia Beltz, a Spanish teacher, stated that learning Spanish while in high school can help students greatly in later parts of life. “Spanish is like a great pair of blue jeans; it goes great with anything! Knowing some conversational or even more technical Spanish can compliment any job or career.”
Many students start off taking the class only because of the requirement, but plenty of students find their love for learning a new language because of this. Senior Wyatt Seekford is one of these students. “At first I took Spanish just because it’s a graduation requirement, but after Spanish II, I realized I enjoyed learning the language and wanted to continue to learn more,” Seekford said.
Seekford enjoys many aspects of learning a new language. He said, “I really enjoy my Spanish class this year. I’ve learned so many new verb tenses and vocabulary. Classes are always different day to day, so we are not doing the same activities over and over.“
Another benefit of taking foreign language classes is to earn language certifications. Beltz explained, “Many students have successfully studied a language in high school for three to four years and have earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy, a certification that never expires, that can help them earn more money in their jobs, place into higher university classes, or find their application at the top of the stack as a stand-out candidate.”
Senior Breanna Parker is one of the several students at Great Crossing that has earned their Global Seal of Biliteracy this school year, which is awarded after passing an exam called STAMP. Parker said, “I actually just completed the STAMP test and passed! The test wasn’t easy, but Mrs. Beltz was great at preparing us for it. I’m very glad I ended up taking the test. Learning Spanish has always been a goal of mine and I would love to become fluent enough to hold a conversation with native speakers.”
Senior Chloe Hager plans to use her language skills in a future career. Hager said, “I am learning Spanish and other languages to be able to work with the government and eventually even NATO. If it weren’t for the time spent in class and paying attention, I don’t think I would’ve ever found myself down the path that I am right now. I believe that this passion is what set my mind to finally make my final decision about going to Murray State in the fall to study international business.”
Learning a world language like Spanish may start off as just another high school requirement, but for many students, it becomes something more meaningful. Whether it’s earning a life-changing and valuable certificate, discovering a new passion, or unlocking an unexpected career path, taking the time to learn a second language will open more doors for you beyond the classroom. “I have had many students travel to Spanish-speaking countries, earn minors in college, or simply use what they have learned in their jobs and it’s so special to have a hand in that language journey with them,” Beltz shared.
Tia Beltz • May 8, 2025 at 11:13 am
Danny, you captured eloquently all of the important and fun aspects of learning a language! Thank you for highlighting those students that had earned their Global Seal of Biliteracy!