St. Benedict’s Fifth Graders Become Published Authors Through Spanish Project

What does it mean to see your name in print at just ten years old? For the fifth grade Spanish students at St. Benedict's Episcopal School, it meant more than finishing a project. It meant finding their voice, embracing a new language, and becoming something they never imagined they would be so soon: published authors of 3 books.

This year, fifth graders in Ms. Yasna Roa Sanchez’s Spanish class contributed to writing and illustrating 3 books in Spanish. From the initial brainstorm to the final printed page, students worked for months to create something real and lasting, not just for a grade but for themselves, their families, and their community. And their hard work didn't stop at the classroom door. Their books were officially submitted to the National Book Challenge, a prestigious contest that recognizes student-authored books from across the country.

There was magic in the moment they held their finished books. Not digital files or classroom worksheets but professionally printed copies of their words and their art. A story to share and a memory they will never forget.

"It felt amazing to see our stories printed in a book," said Eliza T. "We were real authors."

Their teacher, Ms. Yasna Roa Sanchez, designed the project to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. With a background in immersive language instruction and a passion for cultural storytelling, she challenged students to move beyond vocabulary drills and grammar exercises. Instead, she invited them to become authors and artists, utilizing the Spanish language as a means of expression and connection.

"The goal is not just for our students to know Spanish," said Ms. Yasna. "It's for them to use it in meaningful ways, to understand different cultures, and to see themselves as global citizens."

That confidence in language, creativity, and in themselves was the heart of this project. It wasn't just about learning Spanish. According to Ms. Yasna, the goal was to show students that their voices matter. That their stories are worth telling. That their ideas deserve to be seen.

For families, the opportunity for their child was an emotional and affirming experience. Many shared how proud they were to see their child's work in print and were amazed by the level of thought, effort, and artistry each student put into their story. Some even said the project sparked new conversations about language, identity, and creativity around the dinner table.

“Seeing my name and the cover page that I illustrated in a real book made me feel proud. I showed it to my whole family,” said Hannah S.

Whether or not their books are selected as national finalists, these fifth graders have already accomplished something remarkable. They created something meaningful from start to finish. They practiced language skills in a real-world context. And they walked away believing they can do hard things and tell stories that matter.

Spanish is taught as a core subject and instruction begins in preschool, continuing through 8th grade. Over time, students build fluency through a curriculum that emphasizes communication and creativity. Whether they’re learning their first words through song and movement in preschool or writing full storybooks in middle school, the goal is the same: to foster a lifelong love of language, culture, and the celebration of diversity.

"At first, I was nervous about writing in Spanish," said Charlie R.. "But the more I worked on it, the more confident I felt."

Families and supporters are invited to purchase copies of the three books by visiting StudentTreasures.com/OrderCopies and entering the following pin numbers:

• Nuestro Día en St. B’s – PIN: 8385270

• Todo Sobre Nosotros – PIN: 8391267

• Nuestros Colores Favoritos – PIN: 8391264

Learn More About Spanish at St. Benedict’s Episcopal School

Spanish is taught as a core subject and instruction begins in preschool, continuing through 8th grade. Over time, students build fluency through a curriculum that emphasizes communication and creativity. Whether they’re learning their first words through song and movement in preschool or writing full storybooks in middle school, the goal is the same: to foster a lifelong love of language, culture, and the celebration of diversity.

Families can explore how Spanish is introduced to our youngest learners through Acorns to Trees, our free online interactive Spanish lessons. These activities are designed for families of early learners and reflect the engaging, age-appropriate approach used in St. Benedict’s preschool classrooms. To explore Acorns to Trees, visit: www.stbs.org/acornstotrees.