The Spanish Advantage Club

Through our #InfoIsPower theme this month, we are showcasing leaders and institutions in our community that increase information access. This week, we’re sharing a local resource that demonstrates the value of a linguistically and culturally diverse education: The Spanish Advantage Club (T.S.A.C.). 

Originally created to help students who attended Spanish-magnet schools complete their homework, T.S.A.C. was founded in 2015. The program quickly expanded from a tutoring service to a full-time preschool and after-school tutoring program.

What truly sets T.S.A.C. apart is its bilingual focus. Both students and teachers regularly speak Spanish during the school day. A stigma that sometimes accompanies teaching young children a second language is that the kids will become too confused. However, T.S.A.C. has found the opposite to be true. Learning a second language at a young age has been proven to boost cognitive abilities such as memory, attention and comprehension. Also, having the ability to communicate with another group of people builds social skills and confidence.

T.S.A.C. uses positive teaching strategies to help students become fluent second-language speakers. Spanish is spoken frequently, which welcomes students to use newly learned words, phrases and expressions. Utilizing Spanish words while socializing and playing gives students the confidence to use the language outside of school.

Besides highlighting language, teachers also expose students to many different Hispanic cultures. Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, T.S.A.C. will celebrate by learning about different Spanish-speaking countries. Combining language education with geography, popular foods and local holidays allows students to have a truly well-rounded educational experience.

To learn more about The Spanish Advantage Club, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.