Monica Sanchez stands at the intersection of culture, language, and education at Monmouth-Roseville Schools. As a bilingual teacher and an alumna of the district, Monica’s work represents a commitment to inclusion and belonging, ensuring that every student—no matter where they come from—feels connected and capable.

In a district that has seen its diversity grow significantly in recent years, Monica’s contributions are nothing short of transformative. As she works to support Spanish-speaking students transitioning into an English-speaking school system, her approach goes far beyond language instruction. Monica fosters pride in cultural identity while giving students the tools they need to succeed academically.

During our conversation, I am struck by the breadth and depth of inclusion inherent in her work, and I ask her to share an example of this philosophy, but in her native Spanish.

"En la primera semana aprendieron sobre algunas personas latinas y sus contribuciones importantes. Después, exploramos nuestra música y juegos como la lotería, que conecta con nuestra cultura. Es importante que los estudiantes y sus familias sientan que pertenecen mientras mantienen vivas sus tradiciones."

[Translation: "In the first week, they learned about important Latin figures and their contributions. Later, we explored our music and games like Lotería, which connects with our culture. It’s important for students and their families to feel they belong while keeping their traditions alive."] 

Understanding how we all fit into an often complex confluence of cultures feels confident and sure-footed here, if not effortless and, in my limited Spanish, I thank Monica for sharing.

This program, she explained, is just one example of the many ways she integrates cultural education into her teaching. Whether it’s celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, introducing traditions like Día de los Muertos, or creating a classroom environment where students feel safe sharing their personal stories, Monica ensures her students see their identities reflected and valued.

Her work also reaches beyond the classroom. Parents, often hesitant to engage due to language barriers, have been invited to share their own traditions with students and staff, turning her classroom into a bridge between the school and the broader community. One parent expressed their gratitude, saying, “This work gives us hope. We feel seen, and we feel that our children’s culture will not be forgotten.”

Monica’s teaching doesn’t just serve her Spanish-speaking students. It enriches the entire school community. Sixth-grade teacher Courtney Young highlighted how Monica’s presence has transformed her own classroom: “Monica has been a lifesaver. She doesn’t just translate—she connects. Watching her work with our bilingual students has inspired me to think differently about how I approach teaching.”

Courtney shared a moving story about a student who arrived in the United States in August with no knowledge of English. By November, he was confidently asking questions in English during class. “That kind of progress is a testament to Monica’s ability to make these students feel both challenged and supported,” she said.

Principal Andrea Frieden echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bravery of students and families navigating new environments. "Imagine being a young child in a room full of people who don’t speak your language, and still being expected to learn and grow. It takes incredible courage,” Andrea said. “That’s why what Monica does is so critical. She not only gives students the tools to succeed but helps them feel like they belong.”

For Monica, her work is deeply personal. As a teenager who emigrated to the United States and attended Monmouth-Roseville Schools herself, she knows the challenges her students face. “When I was a student here, we didn’t have the kind of support systems we have now. It was isolating,” she said. Her experiences shaped her passion for creating a better path for today’s students.

As much as her role is about teaching language, Monica’s broader mission is about honoring traditions while preparing students for the future. She believes that by preserving their cultural roots, students can grow more confident in who they are—and this confidence radiates into their academic and social lives.

Monmouth-Roseville Schools’ bilingual education program, led by educators like Monica Sanchez, has become a cornerstone of the district’s mission to serve every student. It’s not just a program; it’s a celebration of the community’s diversity and resilience. Monica’s work shows how honoring the past and empowering the present can build a future that every resident served by the District can be proud of.