Megan Brady, OWLA President 2024-2025
Spanish Teacher, Northwest High School

And just like that, our year is winding down with another one in the books! I want to take a moment to thank you all for such a wonderful year. Looking back, we have accomplished so much, including a great fall mini-conference with 60 attendees wanting to learn and collaborate, two strong cohorts that encouraged our members to grow on their specific journeys, an awesome spring conference with over 220 attendees looking to grow and bring languages alive in their classroom and a celebration of Camp OFLA’s 20th anniversary! Perhaps my favorite accomplishment from this year was a new name for our organization! This new name is more inviting to all our community members and students. Friends, it has been a good year.

As we reflect on our accomplishments this academic year, I am reminded of the unique position we hold as language teachers. Beyond teaching vocabulary and grammar, we create spaces where students can express themselves, explore new cultures, and find connections in an increasingly complex world. 

We’re all aware of the challenges facing education (and beyond) today. Budget constraints, shifting priorities, and societal and political pressures can sometimes make our work feel overwhelming. Yet amid these challenges lies our greatest opportunity: to be a consistent positive presence in our students’ lives.

For many of our students, the language classroom may be the one place where they feel seen, heard, and valued. A simple “¡Muy bien!” or “Excellent travail!” might be the only praise some students hear all day. Our enthusiasm for the languages and cultures we teach can spark curiosity and joy in students whose days might otherwise lack these bright spots.

When negativity creeps in, whether from administrative pressures, outside stressors, challenging student behaviors, or our own moments of doubt, remember that consistency is our greatest tool. By simply showing up each day with enthusiasm for our subject and genuine care for our students, we create ripples that extend far beyond our classrooms..

Let’s continue supporting each other in this important work, celebrating our successes (both big and small), and remembering that in the life of a student, a positive classroom experience can make all the difference. Every little thing you do makes an impact on our kids. Warm smiles, kind words, encouragement, and constant support are how we are changing lives every day.

In just a few short weeks, we will end school for the summer. I do hope that you are able to find time for yourself. Fill your cup, soak up the sunshine, sleep in (if you can!), and gather around those that you love. Come fall, we’ll be ready to conquer the world together, one class at a time. 

It’s been a pleasure serving as your OWLA President this year, and I wish you all the best!

¡Adelante!

Megan Brady