Teaching with Heart and Harmony: The Story of Coach Flor


Looking for an online Spanish tutor who brings passion, culture, and music into every lesson? Meet Coach Flor Acevedo, a dedicated online Spanish teacher at Spanish55, whose unique approach intertwines her love for teaching, deep cultural roots, and musical talent. In this article, discover how Flor's journey from accounting to language education has transformed the lives of her students, offering a harmonious blend of personalized instruction and cultural immersion.


Interviewing Flor Acevedo and hearing her story is not unlike listening to a well-crafted melody for the first time, each note revealing a new layer of her personality and dedication to teaching Spanish. Born in Mexico City but raised and currently living in the State of Mexico, about 30 minutes from the nation’s capital, Flor's life has always been deeply rooted in her culture, a foundation that has significantly shaped her approach to teaching and interacting with students from across the United States.

Initially embarking on a career in accounting -like Coach Giovanna-, Flor's path took a surprising turn as she discovered her true calling: teaching. This revelation wasn't born out of a sudden epiphany but rather a deep-seated realization that her passion for sharing knowledge and connecting with others transcended the conventional classroom setting. "I've always felt drawn to teaching," Flor shared, her voice reflecting nostalgia and pride.

"Even when immersed in the world of numbers, the joy of helping others learn and grow truly fulfilled me."


Becoming a Spanish teacher was not just a career change for Flor but a return to her roots. The transition from accounting to language teaching came naturally, fueled by her innate desire to share the richness of her native language and culture.

 

"Teaching Spanish allows me to connect with my students on a deeply personal level, helping them discover not just the language but the soul of Latin culture," Flor explained.

 

Her approach to teaching goes beyond grammar and vocabulary; it's about building bridges between cultures and fostering understanding and appreciation.

At Spanish55, Flor has found a Spanish academy that aligns perfectly with her values and teaching philosophy. As an online Spanish Teacher and Academic Team Leader, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning experience for her students. "What makes Spanish55 special," she remarked, "is our commitment to personalized learning. We're not just teaching a language but opening doors to new worlds for our students." Flor's dedication to her work is evident in how she talks about her students, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

Music plays a central role in Flor's life and teaching methodology. With a unique musical memory, she integrates songs into her lessons, making learning more engaging and memorable for her students. "Music transcends language barriers," she said. "It's a powerful tool for teaching and a way for me to share a piece of myself with my students." This approach has made her classes more enjoyable and allowed her students to experience the language in a more dynamic and immersive way.

Flor's spirituality is another cornerstone of her identity, guiding her both in her personal life and in her approach to teaching. She speaks of the importance of family, her connection to nature, and her deep faith with a sincerity that is both touching and inspiring.

 

"For me, teaching is more than a job; it's a way of sharing love and light with others," Flor said, her words reflecting a profound sense of purpose and gratitude.




Coach Flor soaking in the beauty of a breathtaking sunset in Yucatán, México.



Her spirituality finds a particular resonance with her connection to water, especially the serene beaches of Yucatán. Flor mentions Celestún, a place that captivates her with its natural beauty and serves as a spiritual haven where she feels a profound connection with God. This deep bond with the ocean mirrors her teaching philosophy—fluid, deep, and immensely calming. Flor eagerly anticipates an upcoming move to Mérida, Yucatán, a calm but growing colonial city in the Southeast of México, attracted by the promise of closer proximity to these tranquil waters and the opportunity to immerse herself and her family in Yucatán's rich cultural heritage.

The relationship between Flor and her husband, Óscar, the Soft Skills Manager at Spanish55, adds another layer to her story. This partnership extends beyond their personal lives, contributing to a collaborative and supportive, almost symbiotic, environment at work. Óscar's role in soft skills development complements Flor's teaching, showcasing a holistic approach to online Spanish learning that Spanish55 embodies. Their professional paths, though distinct, intertwine to create a learning experience that is as emotionally intelligent as it is educational.

 


Coach Flor and her husband, Coach Óscar, enjoying their time in Yucatán.


Flor's family life is deeply meshed with her professional ambitions, creating a harmonious balance she cherishes. Living close to her parents and siblings, she describes her home life as part of a close-knit "hive," where support and love are never in short supply. This familial support system has been a cornerstone of her strength, enabling her to pursue her passions with relentless determination.



Coach Flor, Óscar, and their kids enjoying their family vacation in Yucatán, México.


Despite opportunities to become an interpreter, Flor felt a stronger pull towards teaching Spanish online with Spanish55. She was hesitant about the interpreting path, especially in medical and legal fields, due to the high stakes and emotional toll it could entail. Flor's decision to join Spanish55 in January of 2021 was fueled by a desire for a more meaningful and personal connection with her students, something she felt would need to improve in the interpreting role. 

"Teaching with Spanish55 felt like coming home," Flor expressed, highlighting the immediate sense of belonging and purpose with the organization.


Flor's impact on her students has been profound and far-reaching. She recalls specific instances where students have told her they were on the verge of giving up on learning Spanish, but her guidance, patience, and understanding kept them going. "To hear that I've played a part in someone's decision to continue learning is incredibly humbling," Flor stated, visibly moved by the thought. These testimonials testify to Flor's teaching abilities and her power to inspire and motivate her students to achieve their goals.

Flor Acevedo's story clearly embodies the prototypical passion, empathy, and never-ending curiosity of a Spanish55 Coach. In her journey from accountant to beloved teacher, she has touched countless students' lives, helping them learn Spanish as a second language (or even a third) and understand and appreciate a rich and diverse culture. Her teaching goes beyond the confines of traditional online Spanish classes; every lesson with her celebrates connection, learning, and the shared human spirit. Isn't that what it's all about?


Flor’s passion for teaching goes beyond imparting language skills—it’s about building connections and inspiring transformation. One of the most heartfelt examples of this is the story of Angélica Jiménez, one of Flor’s students. Through their lessons, Angélica not only learned Spanish but also reconnected with her cultural roots and family. Discover Angélica’s inspiring journey and how Flor’s guidance played a pivotal role in her story: