Karen Warren-Melaas

Philosophy

On Her Profession

Languages are like the colorful threads that run through the most beautiful fabrics we have ever seen. Our desire to communicate with one another naturally calls us to listen, to speak, to read, and to write, when that communication can occur in an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance.

While a first language develops quite fully for almost all human beings and with relative facility, our second and subsequent languages may be more of a challenge.

The school environment for language learning must be one in which there is a sincerity of promotion by all participants toward creating an ambience that is both accepting and nurturing of the second language learner. Much research supports the belief that attitude toward a given language and the perceived value of that language seem to affect the success of second language acquisition and the retention of those learners, young and old. I believe that information to be paramount.

On Kingsbury

Kingsbury Country Day School, in its philosophy toward the development of independent learners and thinkers, is an ideal place for second language learning. The school’s family like atmosphere in which caring and supportive adults model kindness and inclusion serve to well-replicate the kind of environments in which first languages are learned with ease – that of the home, the family, and the community.

Bio

Taught Spanish at Kingsbury for three years in the 90's and rejoined the staff in 2006 after completing graduate work and special studies at both Oakland and Wayne State Universities. Teacher of Spanish to pre K - senior high school students for 13 years. Have tutored adults and children in Spanish for more than two decades. Teacher of both Leadership and World History at high school level.

Member: American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese; Member: American Council on Teaching of Foreign Languages; Extensive travel to Argentina, Mexico, Costa Rica, Spain

Parent of two young adults who were former Kingsbury Kids.

Additional employment experience in employee recruitment and sales. Extensive professional development for dental practice employees