In her seventh year teaching with Galion City Schools, Jenna Bollinger has created a vibrant and immersive learning environment where students not only experience the Spanish language but also develop a deep appreciation for the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.
Her classroom is a hub of creativity and engagement, featuring activities that spark curiosity and encourage cultural exploration. One standout tradition is her unit Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This year, she and the high school art teacher, Hailey Bowlby, collaborated on a project where students learned about the cultural and historical significance of this celebration through art. This cross-curricular approach connects language learning with visual storytelling, making the experience both meaningful and memorable. Students created milk jug skeletons, which were then displayed around the building. They also collaborated on murals inspired by the culture, which can now be seen on display at El Tarasco Restaurant in Galion.
Another favorite activity among students is Music Wednesdays, a weekly event where they explore Spanish-language music and dances. Earlier this year, students dove into the world of Bachata, a genre that blends music and dance—and some say, a way of life. Through Bachata, students discovered how this art form expresses emotions ranging from the bliss of love to the pain of heartbreak, enriching their understanding of the culture behind the language. On Wednesday, May 7th, parents are invited to join their students in learning basic merengue steps and a little bit about the dance itself.
Ms. Bollinger’s impressive academic background and travel experience enhance her teaching. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Vocal Music Performance from Heidelberg University and two Master of Arts degrees from Eastern Michigan University—one in Spanish and the other in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Her global experiences include visiting 14 countries, which provide a wealth of authentic cultural insights she fondly shares with her students.
Looking ahead, Ms. Bollinger is planning to lead a student trip to Puerto Rico in June 2026. This trip is open to any student in 8th grade through high School at Galion City Schools and their families. Galion staff members and their families are also invited to join in this experience. This 5-day, 4-night trip is an incredible opportunity for students and their families to practice their language skills and experience the culture firsthand.
When asked about her educational philosophy, she said, “I believe two of the best decisions you can make for yourself are to study another language and travel as much and as far as you can.”
With her passion for teaching, culture, and travel, Ms. Bollinger continues to inspire her students to embrace new perspectives and connect with the world around them. We are fortunate to have her as part of our school community!
For more information about the Puerto Rico 2026 Trip, visit galionschools.org/travel