To learn a new language is a gift. The ability to open the door to a whole new part of the world, full of relationships, cultures, and ideas, through the learning of simple words, phrases and grammar, is an opportunity not many get to capitalize on. Additionally, the ability and the strength required to aid students reach that door and walk through it is something not everybody is capable of. However, Niles West High School is blessed with a department full of dedicated, talented foreign language teachers, some of which are newer to the district than others.
Ignacio Gamboa is the newest addition to the Niles West arsenal of Foreign Language teachers. After teaching Spanish for a year at Evanston Township High School, the Illinois State University graduate has taken on the younger generations of Spanish learners with fervor and passion, enthusiastically teaching three sections of Spanish Three, and two sections of Intro to Spanish One. The majority of underclassmen-filled classes are energetic and hopeful coming into this new year. No matter the enthusiasm though, everyone gets the first day jitters.
“Since he’s a new teacher, I think he’s been doing really good. At the beginning of the year, he was a little nervous because he’s like a freshman here, but I think he’s gotten along with us all really well,” sophomore Seline Sulieman said.
It takes a special kind of person to connect with students of that age in such a short period of time, and it seems that Gamboa is an absolute natural. His ability to adapt in the classroom, make the students comfortable, and continue to push their learning to another level is a balance not many can achieve.
Another key to being a supportive teacher is being able to push students beyond their limits. Gamboa accomplishes this task with ease throughout all of his classes.
“He is doing really good. He is energetic. I like that he primarily speaks in Spanish, so that I am challenged to comprehend, and he keeps the class entertained,” sophomore Manny Martinez said.
Not only is he a stellar teacher, but what many do not know is that Gamboa was and will continue to be an asset to the cross-country course. The former runner will expand his influence on young students and athletes as he volunteers as a coach for the cross-country team.
Beyond his influence on students, it seems that Gamboa is making great connections and relationships with those he works with. Though he may be the new kid on the block, he seems to be fitting in perfectly with the veteran teachers in the foreign language department.
“I was actually on the interviewing committee, and he was someone who stood out for his energy-just the way he interacted with the students. Also his involvement that he’s going to be showing in Cross Country and the athletic side of things, but it’s been great to know him. We’ve only started the year but I think he’s going to be a great addition to the department,” Spanish teacher Andrew Suárez said.
Being surrounded by people who know their way around the school and a Spanish classroom has had a great impact on Gamboa as well.
“As simple as it is, being in a department space like this has been my favorite part. Being able to always have conversations with my colleagues, and to see them every single day. That wasn’t something I had last year at Evanston. We didn’t have a space where we all congregated, so this has been great,” Gamboa said.
Long story short, sharing cultures and perspectives is something that our society values, but few get the opportunity to share different perspectives as a profession. It takes a certain kind of person to accomplish this feat, and Niles West wishes Gamboa the best of luck in his future here. Buena suerte, profe!
