The Hoboken Dual Language Charter School was officially recognized as an “International Spanish Academy” by the Spanish government at a ceremony at the school this morning.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“This recognition is a profound achievement and reflects HoLa’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of global citizens,” HoLa Hoboken Executive Director Jennifer Sargent said in a statement.
“Our commitment to academic rigor, bringing in talented educators from diverse backgrounds, and immersing students in Spanish language and culture is at the heart of everything we do.”
According to the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, HoLa is one of only a handful of schools in the United States to earn this designation and the first in New Jersey.
“HoLa is the first and only free public Spanish and English dual language charter school in New Jersey, home to the first College Board-approved Advanced Placement Spanish language arts curriculum for middle school students, which allows eighth-grade students to take AP exams and enter high school with college credits in hand,” added New Jersey Department of Education Acting Commissioner Kevin Dehmer.
“The celebration of HoLa’s designation as an International Spanish Academy continues this tradition of excellence. On behalf of the New Jersey Department of Education and the entire school community, we commend HoLa for these meaningful contributions to public education in New Jersey.”
Through the International Spanish Academy program, HoLa and other high performing schools in the United States and Canada implement a Spanish-English dual language immersion curriculum with the support and recognition of Spain’s Ministry of Education and Vocational Training.
HoLa was also the first school in New Jersey to establish a Visiting Teacher program with the Spanish consulate and their staff is 90 percent Hispanic, representing over 15 different countries throughout the Americas and Europe.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with HoLa. Having native Spanish-speaking educators in the classroom not only enhances language skills but brings vibrant cultures of their home countries to life for the students,” noted Nuria Algar Pinilla from the Spanish Consulate Education Office.
Dignitaries present included Interim Executive County Superintendent Melissa Pearce and World Languages Coordinator Lavinia Rogers, County Commissioners Chair Anthony Romano (D-5), Hoboken Council President Jen Giattino, as well as Council members Tiffanie Fisher, Emily Jabbour, and Phil Cohen and representatives from the offices of Congressman Robert Menendez and Hudson County Executive Craig Guy.
Additionally, from the Spanish Consulate in New York Consul General Marta de Blas Mayordomo, Education Attache Diego Blázquez Martín, Technical Advisor Nuria Algar Pinilla, Technical Advisor represented the Spanish government at the ceremony.
