Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Mary LaPierre-Grasso

Sandy Hook

Summary

Dedicated Spanish Teacher with a proven track record at Fairfield Ludlowe High School, adept at fostering critical thinking and intercultural understanding. Skilled in developing engaging lessons that enhance fluency and communication. Committed to student growth through tailored assessments and collaborative curriculum development, ensuring alignment with ACTFL and College Board standards.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Spanish Teacher

Fairfield Ludlowe High School
08.2004 - Current

Taught Spanish levels 1 through 5 as well as AP Spanish Language and Culture, focusing on interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication
Guided students through complex themes such as global challenges, science and technology, and quality of life using authentic texts, media, and literature
Prepared students for the AP exam through scaffolded skill-building, timed tasks, and cultural comparisons
Developed rigorous, engaging lessons that integrate music, literature, film, and current events
Aligned instruction with ACTFL proficiency guidelines and College Board standards
Fostered critical thinking and emotional resonance through debates, roleplays, and creative writing
Created formative and summative assessments that reflect AP expectations and real-world language use
Provided individualized feedback and support student growth across all language modalities
Tracked progress and communicate effectively with students and families
Promoted intercultural understanding through comparative analysis of Spanish-speaking cultures and students’ own experience

Collaborated with colleagues on curriculum development, interdisciplinary projects, and instructional strategies
Participated in professional learning communities and contribute to department goals


French and Spanish Teacher

Roger Ludlowe Middle School
08.1999 - 06.2004

Qualifications

Taught introductory and intermediate French and Spanish language courses.
Developed lesson plans that build proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Used authentic materials including songs, stories, videos and cultural artifacts to enhance learning.
Differentiated instruction to meet diverse student needs and learning styles.
Fostered intercultural understanding through comparisons of Francophone and Hispanic cultures.
Organized classroom activities, projects, and events that celebrate global diversity.
Designed formative and summative assessments aligned with district and state standards.
Provided timely feedback and maintain accurate records of student progress.
Worked closely with world language colleagues and interdisciplinary teams.
Participated in professional development and contribute to curriculum planning.
Communicated effectively with students, families, and school staff.



Education

Post-Graduate Certificate - Curriculum And Instruction

University of New England
Biddeford, ME
06-2012

Master of Arts - Spanish

Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT
01-2003

Graduate Certificate - Education

University of Massachussetts
Amherst, MA
09-1996

Bachelor of Arts - Spanish, Latin American Studies

University of Vermont
Burlington, VT
05-1994

Skills

  • Fluency in Spanish
  • Strong communication skills
  • Classroom instruction
  • Adaptability to change

Certification

Certification in Spanish and French, grades 7-12

Languages

Spanish
Native or Bilingual
French
Full Professional

Timeline

Spanish Teacher

Fairfield Ludlowe High School
08.2004 - Current

French and Spanish Teacher

Roger Ludlowe Middle School
08.1999 - 06.2004

Post-Graduate Certificate - Curriculum And Instruction

University of New England

Master of Arts - Spanish

Southern Connecticut State University

Graduate Certificate - Education

University of Massachussetts

Bachelor of Arts - Spanish, Latin American Studies

University of Vermont