Celebrating Global Connections in Language Learning

Gina Merino, Preschool and Lower School Spanish teacher and World Language department chair, served on the Global Educator Panel during FLESFEST 2026, a virtual conference affiliated with Wisconsin Association For Language Teachers (WAFLT) and dedicated to elementary world language educators across the region. 

As part of the panel, Merino (pictured) joined regional colleagues to discuss how educators can prepare young learners to thrive in an interconnected world through language and cultural learning. “The panel explored how even our youngest students can engage with global perspectives, learning to see themselves not just as language learners, but as curious explorers of the world,” said Merino.

Topics included integrating culture from the very beginning of language acquisition, designing activities that spark authentic curiosity, and helping novice learners make meaningful cultural comparisons in age-appropriate ways.

Laith Al-Msaibeeh, Preschool and Lower School French teacher at USM, has served as co-chair of FLESFEST for the past two years and as the Wisconsin representative for National Network for Early Language Learning. His and Merino’s work in organizing and participating in this virtual conference highlight the strength of our school’s commitment to early language education and global competence.