At Umatilla High School, students in Mrs. Aida Ayuso’s advisory class recently took on a creative project that brought a taste of Spain to their hallways. With a group of students preparing to travel to Spain in June 2025 through Explorica, an educational tour program, Mrs. Ayuso saw an opportunity to introduce them to the country’s culture before their journey.
For Mrs. Ayuso, this project was more than just a lesson—it was a personal connection to home. Originally from southern Spain, she is at Umatilla High School on a work exchange program sponsored by the Cordell Foundation, which encourages cultural activities as part of her teaching experience. Her husband, John Adan, also teaches at the school, and together they moved with their children to immerse them in a new culture, strengthen their English skills, and build meaningful connections. “We wanted this experience not just for ourselves, but for our children,” Mrs. Ayuso shared. “We raised them speaking Spanish and English, and now we want them to fully experience the culture, language, and people. At the same time, we hope to share our own traditions. It’s an incredible opportunity.”
As part of the project, Mrs. Ayuso divided her class into five groups, assigning each one a Spanish city that the student travelers will visit: Barcelona, Madrid, Sevilla, Granada, and Málaga–Costa del Sol. Students researched traditional foods, landmarks, notable figures, nature preserves, and soccer teams, then transformed classroom doors into vibrant displays filled with facts and visuals. Each group later presented their findings to the class.
This project not only brought a piece of Spain into the classroom but also built excitement for the upcoming trip. For those traveling, it provided a solid introduction to the places they’ll visit. For those staying behind, it was a chance to explore Spain’s culture through the decorated hallways.
Mrs. Ayuso, who holds a PhD in Biology, teaches Biology and Earth Science at Umatilla High School while Mr. Adan, who has a Master’s in Teaching, teaches Biology, Geometry, and Math. In her classes, she integrates Spanish vocabulary into lessons, helping students learn in both languages. “The students are the reason I’m here. I love meeting them and getting to know them.”
Adjusting to life in Umatilla was made easier thanks to the support of the school and district staff. Mrs. Ayuso and Mr. Adan expressed their gratitude to Mr. Tesch, Mr. Contreras, Ms. Fun, and Mrs. Blanca, along with Josy Chavez and Heidi Sipe from the district team. “They even helped us find a house,” Mrs. Ayuso said. “The transition was very easy due to their help.”
For the Adan-Ayuso family, this journey is about more than just teaching—it’s about connection, culture, and community. “The kindness and generosity of the people we’ve met, the time we’ve spent with them—that’s what makes this experience so special.”
