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About
I am an experienced language instructor. I know what works best for adults as well as children. For adults, we focus on communication and getting you speaking in the least amount of time. You won't be bored with endless verb conjugation. I keep the lessons meaningful and dynamic.
I like empowering others to communicate. My goal is to bridge the communication gap between English and Spanish speakers.
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JW
Janice W.
Spanish conversation lessons weekly - both semi-private and private. Gina adjusts my lessons based on multiple factors. She notes those areas in which I need more focus, takes in account my request to review instead of advancing to new material and with sufficient advance notice is willing to adjust the schedule when the unexpected arises.
March 24, 2017
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I assess over the phone to determine level and goals. For Spanish, I have developed curriculum for Levels 1-4 and advanced. For English, I recommend a textbook/workbook based on assessment.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an Adult Education Teachers Credential, a Master's Degree and over 25 years of teaching experience.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I offer small group pricing for Spanish classes. English classes are usually private or we will work with companies or formed groups on pricing.
Children Small Group: $40/hour
Adult Small Group: $52.50/hr for 10-week package + $75 Materials Fee
Private Lessons for children or adults: $125/hour.
Private Lessons: Also offered in 30-minute increments for Zoom classes
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching ESL for the US Peace Corps and I LOVED it. After starting a career in interpreting, I realized that teaching was really where my heart is. I got an Adult Ed Teaching Credential and started teaching ESL in Adult Ed programs.
During this, I realized there was a real need for teaching industry-specific Spanish, so I founded Habla Language Services and we now offer conversational Spanish and English classes as well. We can also help train interpreters and work with native Spanish speakers. We offer a Spanish Immersion Program in Costa Rica every July which includes tourism and living with host families back in my town of Peace Corps service.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with pre-k through retirement age, including those with learning challenges. I was a classroom teacher at a private middle school and also a public high school. I also started the School Readiness Program for Mt. Diablo Unified School District. My favorite is working with adults who really want to learn Spanish. We focus on communication and not perfection. Let's get you talking!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I love going to Costa Rica every year. I continue to nourish the relationships I started there 30+ years ago with Peace Corps. I also take bilingual or Spanish book donations there every year where I partner with a local agency that installs libraries in rural elementary schools. We have donated baseball equipment and English books to 2 high schools in my town of service and do volunteer work with ASIS Animal Sanctuary. I love bringing students there to really live and experience the language and culture.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you are dealing with a qualified teacher, not just a native speaker.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Ask:
Do you have experience developing curriculum? Or what curriculum would we be using?
Do you have experience working with students who are looking to raise their grade?
What credentials do you have?
Have you worked with students with my particular challenges and/or goals?
Services offered
Spanish
Esl
Microsoft Word