David Galicia, an 8th grade dual language student at the School for the Talented and Gifted in Pleasant Grove, is the first place winner of the National Association of Bilingual Educators (NABE) essay contest. David and his family have been invited to be honored at the NABE Awards Luncheon this month in New York City.
David was born in Dallas to parents originally from San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and throughout his life he has been exposed to both Spanish and English.
“I am a first-generation Hispanic American. Like my contemporaries, I have obtained the power to read, write, and speak in two languages,” he said. “This ‘magic power’ can be advantageous, and not just for when I go out with friends. For me, the importance of bilingualism lies in its political, historical, and economic purposes.”
Bilingual elementary, middle, and high school students were invited to submit an essay on an experience related to being bilingual for the 47th installment of the essay contest. David wrote on the theme “The Importance of Being Bilingual.”
“Because I am bilingual, I am able to have a conversation with other people, learn more history and earn a higher salary at a job,” David wrote. “I remember a moment during Career Day, where a Google presenter stated that, ‘The company pays more to individuals who are able to read, speak, and write in multiple languages.’ When you are bilingual, you can create diplomacy and support people in solving live-saving events and inventions.”
With more than 50% of people globally speaking two or more languages, the teachers and students at the School for the Talented and Gifted in Pleasant Grove understand the importance of bilingualism and the potential benefits of a dual language educational approach. The school is equipped to provide students with the tools needed to be successful both academically and socially.
Kassandra Dena, 8th grade dual language Reading Language Arts teacher and coordinator at the school, has always enjoyed bringing students’ internal motivation to the forefront.
“ I have always encouraged my students to push themselves past their limits, take risks, and do things they are passionate about. It’s what I feel brings out the students’ gifts and strengths to lead to magical creations,” she said. “David is an exceptional student who is eager to learn and discover new things every day. He is always trying to look at world maps and make connections, as one of his childhood dreams is to travel the world.”
Dallas ISD is home to one of the largest dual language programs in the nation, proudly creating bilingual, bicultural and biliterate leaders. Discover the district’s dual language programs and become a leader who speaks, reads and writes in two languages.
