Lessons from 52 years of bilingual education in San Miguel: ‘Confidently Wrong’ talks to Escuela Vasconcelos

As we continue to bring you perspectives on raising and educating kids in Mexico, we thought that it would be great to hear first hand from the principal of a school in Mexico that has been teaching young kids in both Spanish and English for 52 years.

Escuela Vasconcelos in San Miguel de Allende is truly a local legend, from its founding so many years ago, to the present day impact that the school has on the local community.  

I live near Vasconcelos and know many Mexican and expat families that have sent or currently send their kids there. As a result, I have seen first hand the unique and welcoming culture that the school has built and cultivated over the years. For over five decades now, the school has been a place where Mexican families send their kids to learn in English and foreign families send their kids to learn in Spanish. The mix of families with different backgrounds and experiences makes for a very interesting case study. And as you will hear, the result is a group of very special kids.

In recent episodes of “Confidently Wrong,” we’ve spoken with families from around the world about challenges and delights of raising kids in Mexico.

In this episode, we have a new perspective to share from the educators’ side of the story. Graciela Salazar, principal of Escuela Vasconcelos, has led the school for 9 years. She has a unique take on the issue, as her kids attended the school for years before she began working there. Graciela has seen it both as a mother and as a school principal and shares insight into what makes learning at a bilingual school in a small town such a meaningful experience for kids. This episode will give you perspectives on important questions you may have on topics like:

1. How can children with limited Spanish join a bilingual program?
2. What does your child do when they hit high school?
3. How do kids settle into a learning environment where half of the day is in a different language?
4. Can learning happen without constant standardized testing?

Check out this episode, which I am certain you will help you be increasingly less confidently wrong and increasingly more excited and optimistic about the opportunities for your child to study in Mexico. You also find our “Confidently Wrong” podcast on Spotify, here, or on our YouTube channel.

Travis Bembenek is the CEO of Mexico News Daily and has been living, working or playing in Mexico for nearly 30 years.