Hello. I’ve been an educator for over 15 years. I am passionate about bilingualism and the different ways that language acquisition occurs.

I was born in México and raised in a Mexican-American culture.

I decided to found DLA to support people’s language learning journey and enrich our growingly diverse community.

I was born in Europe into a bilingual Italian and French family. I hold a degree from the University of Geneva, Switzerland, in Italian, French, and English language and literature studies, and a Master’s degree from Tufts University in linguistics.

I have taught Italian and French at Tufts and at Wellesley College. I have also taught Italian classes for adults and children, and I’m currently teaching Italian to my granddaughter.

I love to teach and to share the language and the culture of my countries of birth. My approach to language learning is to involve each student to actively participate, interact, and have fun!

I am originally from Alaska and moved to Davis in 2021. I am a dedicated learner of the Spanish language and received my degree in Spanish from Arizona State University.

Having acquired a second language in adulthood, I understand just how uncomfortable it can be to take it outside the classroom, but I also know all the life changing connection and gratification it can bring.

I am especially passionate about language acquisition but when I'm not in the classroom I also love to dance, read, and travel!

Hello, My name is Jasmine Harris, a Deaf educator with a deep passion for teaching American Sign Language (ASL). Currently pursuing my graduate degree, I am dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in education.

Traveling and hiking are my greatest joy. By teaching ASL, I strive to bridge the communication gap and foster understanding between Deaf and Hearing communities. Let's join forces and create more inclusive and vibrant world together.

Kaori is a Japanese instructor and a learning designer from Tokyo, Japan, as well as an avid language learner herself. After a decade of working as an ESL teacher in Tokyo, she came to the U.S. to obtain her MA in instructional design degree. Since graduating, she has been working for the University of California system. Her expertise includes faculty development, curriculum design, and learning interface design. She believes in the power of self-efficacy in learning. In her class, you'll be given a lot of scaffolded practices until you gain the confidence to start expressing yourself, which is the ultimate outcome of her lessons.

I moved to Davis with my family in 2005. Everybody who considers learning a language has different reasons, like traveling, friendships or moving to a German speaking country for a job. Learning a language needs commitment and opportunity to practice. I'm happy to adjust my German language instruction to your level of interest and your needs.

How do I teach? With 100% enthusiasm, with a lot of context of German culture, step-by-step, and with active practice for every student at any level. German is a very descriptive and precise language, you will enjoy it.

As a director of preschools, kindergartens and a school I was co - founder of a bilingual school and childcare in Berlin. Before, I worked in adult school programs. In addition, I was chairwoman of the education committee at the Berlin State Parliament. Here in Davis I volunteered with lectures in the classes of my children. I can assure you that I'm very knowledgeable and talented to work with people of any age. I will be happy to work with you, too!

I was born and raised in Japan, and as a native Japanese speaker, I love sharing the language and culture with others. I have experience teaching students of all ages, from young children to adults. As a longtime English and Spanish learner, I understand that learning a new language can be intimidating, especially in front of others. That's why I work hard to create a safe and welcoming environment where my students can feel comfortable. I also strive to make my lessons engaging and enjoyable.

Born in Guadalajara, México I migrated to the U.S. in the late 80´s along with my family like many others at the time. I lived in Southern California before moving to Davis in 2015. I have always had a passion for designing clothes and became a seamstress at an early age, which I still do as a hobby. Since Spanish is my native tongue and have had to learn English for most of my life, I also love helping others to have the same opportunity that was presented to me so many years go, learning a second language.

I was a volunteer at Cesar Chavez Elementary for a couple years and it was then that I understood the profound impact we can have in our children’s learning process when we are involved in their development. My primary goal is helping them gain life skills, which can offer them a better understanding of their community and a satisfying connection to a second culture.