Teri Wiechart, OWLA Parliamentarian & Bylaws Chair
Retired, Delphos Jefferson High School

Across Ohio, world language programs are facing a challenge we all feel: too few teachers for too many students who deserve access to global learning. Districts are struggling to fill positions; new teachers are entering the profession with less support than ever; university programs are being dropped left and right; and programs are stretched thin.

But there is a source of strength we often overlook—a group whose experience, wisdom, and passion could transform the future of language education in our state: our retired world language teachers.

Are you a retired teacher? You carry decades of classroom expertise, cultural knowledge, and advocacy experience. You know what it takes to build a thriving program, nurture students into confident communicators, and to keep a language program alive even in difficult times. And many retired teachers are eager to stay connected—this is the invitation to get involved.

You can:

• Mentor a new teacher
• Join an OWLA Committee
• Substitute teach
• Judge contests
• Support immersion events
• Help with advocacy
• Assist with curriculum projects
• Serve as community ambassadors for world languages
• Contribute in the way you feel empowered

These contributions don’t just fill gaps—they strengthen programs and help districts see the value of maintaining (and expanding) language offerings.

To teachers still in the classroom, OWLA believes that retired teachers are not just part of our past—they are essential to our future. This year, we invite our members to reach out, reconnect, and re‑engage with the retired educators in your community. A simple email, a coffee invitation, or a request for mentorship can open the door to powerful collaboration.

As a board member, I invite you to get active in the organization in many ways:

• Join a committee
• Give a presentation at the fall and spring workshops
• Attend webinars and conferences

And for our retired colleagues reading this: your impact didn’t end when you left the classroom. Ohio still needs your voice, your wisdom, and your heart for students.

Together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable future for world language education in Ohio—one connection at a time.