Skyline High School student Noe Peralta was born and raised in Dallas, to parents originally from San Luis Potosi and Coahuila, Mexico, so Spanish is the language he grew up with at home.
“I am proud to be bilingual, as it connects me to my heritage,” said Noe.
Noe is part of the World Languages Cluster at Skyline Career Development Center, where students learn to communicate in the language they choose by using a variety of oral proficiency-based materials. Skills include acquiring new vocabulary and grammar for everyday living, exposure to the spoken and written language, and activities that enable the student to become familiar with the culture and history of the target language.
Knowledge of other languages and cultures is a necessity of modern life in a diverse community, Noe said.
“In addition to Spanish, the World Languages Cluster allowed me to learn Italian and French, which I found very interesting because it’ll help me become a more diverse person,” he said. “I am interested in expanding my knowledge of diverse cultures and perfecting my Spanish language skills.”
Raúl Montoya Santellano, Noe’s Spanish teacher at the School for the Talented and Gifted at Pleasant Grove, praised Noe’s language skills: “I have had the honor of knowing Noe for the last two years and it was a privilege to be his Spanish teacher,” he said. “During that time, I saw Noe become an excellent public speaker who excels both in English and Spanish. His ability to take language risks and give his full commitment to refining his language ability is admirable.”
Learning new languages has allowed Noe to be a more open and social person, and his experience has motivated classmates to follow in his steps.
“I am proud of who I am. My heritage and culture are unique because we have our own celebrations, food and much more,” Noe said.
