Chris MacCormack   Spanish II and II teacher 

About Me

      I just returned to BHS this year after a three year break and it feels good to be back. I consider Bayshore to be a very friendly school with hardworking teachers and an interesting diverse student population. During my long career I have taught at high schools, middle schools, language institutes and colleges. I have a MAT in language teaching  and received National Board Certification in 2006. I have lived and worked in  7 different countries and enjoy overseas traveling very much.  Tampa and Bradenton have been my home for 30 years and my two children and grandchild live nearby. My other hobbies are painting and outdoor activities. 

My Thoughts on Teaching and Learning Spanish

      First, I believe that learning Spanish is very valuable especially for students in Florida. Students from a Hispanic background have a tremendous skill which they can develop and learn to appreciate. Students who are learning Spanish as a new language are acquiring a skill which they will be able to use in their personal and professional lives.  I commend them for making the choice to take Spanish and hope they will continue to build their skills in the future. I believe that all students can learn to speak Spanish if they are willing to try and willing to work at it. I see my job as the organizer and task master who guides my students to reach realistic short term goals. I try to keep the activities in class and the assignments interesting with plenty of opportunities to practice the different language skills.  Since I am not a native speaker and I have attempted to learn several other languages, I am very sensitive to the frustrations students feel.