Each year the Foreign Language Association of Georgia awards one Teacher of the Year. This year the award will be presented to Gainesville High School Spanish teacher Ana Diaz.
Diaz will be formally presented with the award at the FLAG annual conference held in Atlanta in March, according to officials with the school district.
“Our world languages program is one of the unique strengths we offer at Gainesville High,” Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools Superintendent said. “Mrs. Diaz brings innovation and enthusiasm to our program.”
The FLAG Teacher of the Year award recognizes teachers who effectively strive to use various strategies, techniques and materials to enhance the student's interest in, acquisition of, and proficiency in a second language.
Diaz introduced AP Spanish Language to GHS beginning with 15 students in its first year. In its second year, the class grew to 81 students followed by the addition of AP Spanish Literature for the first time in school history with 30 students in its first class, officials said Tuesday.
“I am proud of the work Ms. Diaz has done in our World Languages Department,” GHS Principal Jamie Green said. “Ms. Diaz spearheaded the process for state approval for the International Skills Diploma Seal and recognition for World Language Pathway completers leading to 224 students completing the pathway.”
Under Diaz’ leadership, the GHS World Language Team introduced the Spanish for Heritage Learners course, offering tailored support for native speakers and heritage learners.
“I eagerly anticipate witnessing Gainesville High School maintain its pioneering role as a leader in World Language initiatives,” Diaz said. “FLAG gave me the opportunity to champion inclusivity at the state level and advocate for the Natives and Heritage Speaker category in the FLAG Spoken Language Contest, allowing students to showcase their unique linguistic heritage.”
Diaz crafted tasks and rubrics for the contest in 2021, and in 2022, served as a judges' coach.
Gainesville will serve as host for the FLAG Spoken Language Contest for North Georgia this year, providing a platform for students to showcase proficiency levels in French, Chinese and Spanish across all levels.
