Episode 151: Back to School in the World Language Classroom: 3 Pillars to Build a Sustainable Language Classroom

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As we step into a new school year, one word guides everything: sustainability.

In this first episode of a 4-part summer series, I’m breaking down the key to a successful and sustainable language class—one that doesn't run on exhaustion. You’ll learn about the 3 essential pillars that create a joyful, communicative, and manageable classroom experience—plus the one critical consideration teachers often overlook. Whether you're teaching Spanish or any world language, this episode will help you set up your routines, relationships, and planning framework so you can teach with energy and intention all year long.

This is not just about strategies—it’s about making them last.

Grab your cafecito and let’s get started. ☕💬

What you'll learn in this episode:

✅ Why sustainability isn’t optional—it’s essential
✅ The role of context and how it shapes your classroom decisions
✅ Pillar 1: How consistent routines support input, structure, and classroom management
✅ Pillar 2: Why relationships must come before content (especially in the first weeks)
✅ Pillar 3: A clear planning framework grounded in Second Language Acquisition
✅ What’s coming next in the Summer Series
✅ Sneak peek into the 7-day free trial of the Spanish Teacher Academy

Mentioned in this episode:

🔗 Join the waitlist for the 7-day free trial (starting July 7):
 growingwithproficiency.com/academy

🎧 Related podcast episodes:

• Episode 11 – How to Plan a 90-Minute Class
• Episode 131 with Maris Hawkins – Understanding the New ACTFL Descriptors
• Episode 90 with AnneMarie Chase – Low-Stress Assessment for Proficiency
• Episode 52 on how to adapt your textbook with CI-based strategies

Let’s keep growing — with joy, clarity, and connection.
If this episode inspired you, please leave a review or share it with a fellow teacher. ✨