Caroline Rolon joined St. Martha as our Spanish teacher this year. Get to know more about Mrs. Rolon!
Where are you from?
I’m from Puerto Rico.
Tell us about your family?
I have a brother and sister. My grandparents and aunt raised me. I got married two years ago and we moved to America the next day.
My husband had a job in Louisville that relocated us.
What did you study in school?
I graduated from the University of Puerto Rico Humacao, (Humacao is the town where the university is located). I studied there for six years – I got my Bachelor Degree in Teaching and an Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy.
Tell us about your past work before becoming a teacher at St. Martha
I came from Vanguard Academy. I worked there for one and a half years as a pre-school teacher. I worked in the infant room and then worked with one- and two-year olds as well.
Before that, I worked as an occupational therapy assistant.
What do you like to do for fun/in your spare time?
I like to read and play video games and I love volleyball – I used to be on a team in Puerto Rico.
What’s been your favorite thing about St. Martha so far?
The people. I like the environment with my co-workers and the principal. I’ve gotten a lot of support.
What made you want to be a teacher?
Both my brother and sister are special education students. I had to help them both – we didn’t have the resources in Puerto Rico like we have here. All the time I was at home I was helping them with reading, writing. That’s really what led me to become a teacher, I wanted to help others the way I helped them.
What would you say students like most about your class?
They love songs and fun ways of interacting. We recently did Psalm 23 in English and Spanish – we had great participation!
I’m looking forward to doing lessons on how we celebrate holidays in Spanish-speaking countries and doing cultural activities that involve food, dress, celebrations, etc.
What’s it like seeing such a wide range of age students?
It’s a challenge, but it’s awesome! I love meeting all the kids and knowing I’ll get to see their progress over the years. They love when they see you in the hall and like to give hugs, high-fives. It’s great to have that opportunity.
What is the hardest thing about learning another language?
It can be challenging – you don’t want to mess up and say the wrong thing! When I first moved here I didn’t want to speak English – I think being able to share my experience is helpful.
