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Moravian Academy in Action
Spanish 1 Students Connect with Community at Senior Center
As part of their Spanish 1 curriculum, Moravian Academy Upper School students recently visited the Basilio Huertas Senior Center on Bethlehem’s South Side—an experience that brought language learning to life through authentic connection, cultural immersion, and joyful community engagement.
Rooted in our Spanish as a Global Language program, this experience reflects Moravian Academy’s mission to empower inclusive global citizens. Through conversation, laughter, music, and shared stories, students stepped beyond vocabulary lists and grammar exercises to engage meaningfully with native and heritage Spanish speakers in our local community.
The senior center welcomed students with a festive luncheon and a lively performance by Talento Local, a group of musicians and folk dancers. Students joined in dancing, played cards and dominoes, and exchanged stories in both Spanish and English. They also donated non-perishable items to support the center’s food pantry—contributing to the community in both spirit and action. A spontaneous dance party and a surprise appearance by the Easter Bunny made the afternoon even more memorable.
Experiences like these are essential to the development of language fluency, cultural competency, and the empathy that defines responsible global citizenship. When students connect across generations and cultures, they begin to understand the deeper purpose of learning a language: to listen, relate, and engage with the world.
Student reflections speak volumes:
“Overall I thought it was a very cool experience. I liked how everyone was in a good mood and all the culture that was involved. The Spanish band playing while people danced made it really special. I was grateful for the meal they gave us—it really showed their hospitality.”
“We talked to our senior about dominoes, and he told us about his favorite parts of the center. He even introduced us to his wife! I was nervous at first, but everyone was so welcoming. The spontaneous party was a highlight. It felt like the time flew by, and I’d love to go back.”
“Being there reminded me of spending time with my dad. The food, the dancing, the drawing—it was all just a lot of fun. I hope we can return soon.”
“Meeting the seniors was very sweet. They had so many stories to share. The woman I spent time with was quiet but kind, and she taught me how to play dominoes—which I turned out to be surprisingly good at!”
We’re deeply grateful to the staff and residents of the Basilio Huertas Senior Center for their warmth and generosity. Experiences like these deepen students’ understanding of the world—and help them grow into the inclusive, empathetic, and globally-minded individuals our mission calls them to be.
