At Olympic High School, Mrs. Ugueto Sanchez is not just a Spanish teacher; she's a beacon of inspiration. Her recent recognition with the Arts and Science Council Cato award for Excellence in Teaching History is a testament to her extraordinary dedication to bringing Afro-Latinx and Hispanic culture, heritage, and history to life in her classroom through exceptionally creative methods.
We take immense pride in celebrating Mrs. Ugueto Sanchez for this remarkable achievement and for the profound impact she has on the students at Olympic High School. Her recognition serves as a powerful testament to the transformative influence of the Olympic High School Foundation's support on teachers like her.
Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, Mrs. Ugueto received a professional development grant from the Olympic High School Foundation, which allowed her to further cultivate her leadership skills through the Arts and Science Council development program. This training not only enriched her abilities but also served as a source of inspiration for students and administrators alike. Under her guidance, they actively participated in a wide range of Afro-Latino, Hispanic heritage, and cultural enrichment celebrations, including Dias De Las Muertas, Carnival, Afro Latinx Dancing and Drumming, and the celebration of independence days of the 21 Spanish-speaking countries represented within the OHS student body.
These activities fostered a profound connection for both native and non-native Spanish-speaking students with their own multi-cultural heritage. Moreover, they gained invaluable insights into the rich cultures, folklores, and histories of Spanish-speaking countries, preparing them for meaningful 21st-century conversations about race, ethnicity, and the Latinx diaspora.
In her classroom, Mrs. Ugueto brings these cultural treasures to life through a captivating gallery of artifacts from Spanish-speaking countries—traditional clothing, masks, and foods—all designed for students to explore, experience, and appreciate. Beyond teaching Spanish as a language, she provides a holistic and enriching educational experience.
Mrs. Ugueto Sanchez's recognition with the ASC-Cato award for Excellence in Teaching is proof of the transformative power that dedicated educators possess within the classroom. Thanks to the unwavering support of the Olympic High School Foundation, teachers like Mrs. Ugueto Sanchez can continue to expand their professional development and leave an indelible impact on their students, Olympic High School, and the vibrant Steele Creek community in exceptional ways.