Bringing Language and Culture to Life: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

When students walk into Marielsa Soto’s Spanish classroom at Rosa Parks Middle School, they are met with more than verb conjugations and vocabulary lists. They are welcomed into a world where language comes alive through culture, history and pride.

A native of Puerto Rico and a lifelong educator, Soto has dedicated the past 16 years to teaching. She began her career in Puerto Rico, where she taught history and social studies for nine years, then moved to Washington, D.C., to teach Spanish before joining Rosa Parks six years ago. For her, teaching Spanish is more than instruction, it is a calling.

“My greatest inspiration has always been my parents,” Soto shared. “I come from a family of educators who, through their example, taught me what it means to serve our nation with passion through teaching. From them, I learned tenacity and courage—qualities I strive to pass on to my students.”

That passion is felt daily in her classroom, where Soto makes it her mission to connect her students to the richness of Hispanic culture. “What I love most is teaching culture,” she explained. “Culture defines us as citizens, and it is one of the most important treasures of every nation. Sharing that with students is deeply rewarding.”

Principal Stephen Reck says her impact on the school community cannot be overstated. “As a native Spanish speaker and a proud Puerto Rican, Ms. Soto brings a unique richness and depth to her classroom that benefits all of our students,” he said. “She doesn’t just teach the language; she brings it to life through a deep understanding of its cultural nuances, traditions and history. Ms. Soto’s passion is contagious, and her commitment to her students is evident in their progress and enthusiasm for her class.”

For Soto, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of personal pride and reflection. “I carry my roots in my veins, and celebrating this month allows me to honor the countless contributions of Hispanic men and women not only in the United States, but around the world,” she said. “We are a humble people with great determination, and that is something I value and strive to instill in my students.”

In her classroom, that celebration takes shape through lessons on Hispanic music, biographies of influential figures and important historical events. She sees these lessons, not only as content, but as bridges connecting her students to a larger, global heritage.

Soto often reminds her students of a phrase by Spanish philosopher Miguel de Unamuno: El que habla dos lenguas vale por dos—“who speaks two languages is worth double.” For her, it captures the heart of why she teaches. “Teaching is not only about academic success; it is about touching lives,” she said. “Every student carries a unique story, and when we teach with empathy, passion and high expectations, we not only educate minds but also nurture hearts and shape future citizens.”