Did you know that both Spanish teachers at FJSHS are from Spain? Marian Ortiz joined the FCS teaching staff in 2022 through the Spanish Visiting Teacher Program, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW). Shortly after, her husband, Juan Delgado, and their son, Nicholas, joined her in Fostoria. Mr. Delgado initially worked as a substitute teacher for FCS, but when a Spanish teaching position became available, he stepped into the role. This unique opportunity allows students to learn from two native Spanish teachers, bringing an authentic cultural experience to the classroom.
Mrs. Ortiz was an English and French teacher in Spain for twenty-five years before coming to Fostoria, and Mr. Delgado taught Finance, Human Resources, and Accounting for five years. They decided to have Marian join the Visiting Teacher Program because they wanted to experience teaching abroad. They wanted to learn about new cultures, methodologies, and whys of doing things.
When asked about the differences between our schools and schools in Spain, they mentioned public schools in Spain are very different. Most buildings are old and lack resources, such as lockers. There is also a lack of investment in everything related to sports. In Spain, sports are not part of after-school activities.
The family did not know a lot about Ohio before their arrival. They knew that Ohio was close to the Great Lakes, it was cold in the winter, and it was a good place for families. Upon their arrival, they met nice people and felt very welcomed. The first year here felt like they were in a movie. Seeing trucks, houses, and something as simple as the country or fences is not common in Spain and something they were used to seeing in a movie.
For now, they feel Fostoria is their home, where they live and teach, a city where they feel safe, with beautiful landscapes and everything they need. When asked what they think of Fostoria and the community, they shared, “Our neighbors and all the people living here are the best surprises for us. They are always ready to help you, extremely polite and generous.”