Features

Say “Hola” to spanish teacher Señorita Ford

Sophia Bushnell, Lucia Macari, Julia Mielczarek, and Maggie Sinnett

September 30, 2023

Señorita Ford stands next to her Spanish word wall.

After graduating from Illinois State University, Sheridan Ford is ready to start her very first year of teaching. Ford is joining the world language department, teaching Spanish at the level she was first introduced to the language herself. Her love for the Spanish language started her freshman year of high school, and continued throughout her “non-traditional” college journey, where she transferred from Moraine Valley to Illinois State University during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During her first four years of studying Spanish, Ford had the opportunity to go on a two week trip to Ecuador.

“Although I got altitude sickness, it was one of the most incredible experiences that I have ever had, and I really saw the purpose of the language and really fell in love with it,” Ford said.

Falling in love with not only the language, but also the culture, Ford hopes to instill that passion in her students.

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“One of the biggest things I’ve always wanted to do… is to bring awareness to the language, the culture and break down stereotypes,” Ford said.

Though she is feeling overwhelmed entering her first year teaching, Ford has felt more than grateful for the support the staff has shown her.

“Not just the students but the parents, the faculty, everyone in my department, from all the way up to administration, I’ve been supported and guided,” Ford said.

While a bit nervous about starting her teaching career, Ford is excited to join the community and looks forward to all that the school has to offer.

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About the Contributors

Sophia Bushnell, Co-Editor-in-Chief

Sophia Bushnell is a senior and second-year member on the Tom-Tom staff. Her friends and family would describe her as artistic, intelligent and critical. When not falling asleep in her AP classes, Sophia can be found listening to music, getting a sweet treat or re-watching her favorite childhood movies. Very involved in LHS activities, she is the NHS Empathy co-chair, Senior Class representative and a World Language Club board member. Looking forward, Sophia aspires to attend a top university and pursue a career in psychiatry.

Lucia Macari, Copy Editor

Lucia Macari is a senior at LHS and is entering her second year on the Tom-Tom staff as a co-lead copy editor. Her friends and family would describe her as a hard worker and most would call her a perfectionist. Lucia likes to keep herself busy, as a member of the varsity Dance Team, Golden Cheer & Dance Team, NHS, NEHS, Mu Alpha Theta and on the board of Rho Kappa. If she’s not at practice or a meeting, she can be found spending time with friends and family or working at her family’s restaurant, Digs on Canal. Lucia takes pride in her academics and hopes to earn an undergraduate in Political Science and attend law school.

Julia Mielczarek, Copy Editor

Senior Julia Mielczarek is entering her second year of Journalism and is excited to be a copy editor this year. Julia is president of Interact and on the NEHS board. She is also part of SNHS, HOSA and Psychology Club. While not shedding tears over homework assignments, Julia can be found reading books, eating the food that is bought for her and rewatching “La La Land.” Julia also enjoys fall and winter holidays because of the music, decorations and overall good vibes. In the future, Julia plans on going to dental school and annoying her best friend, Leila Rexhepi, 24/7.

Maggie Sinnett, Staff Writer

Maggie Sinnett is a sophomore at LHS and is ecstatic to start her first year on the Tom-Tom Staff! In addition to Journalism, Maggie participates in Leo Club, HOSA, Junior Achievement and is the sophomore Student Class vice president. Maggie’s family describes her as a “quiet leader,” who is thoughtful and driven by success. Aside from school, Maggie enjoys running and going to the mall with friends. You can often catch her hanging out with her family and puppy, Finley. She is also a brand ambassador for various skin care companies who helps elevate brand awareness. One day, Maggie is hopeful that she will be running a successful business of her own.