Dunham News | The Dunham School, Baton Rouge, LA

Mackensie Heath Earns Prestigious scholarship

The Dunham School is excited to announce that Middle School spanish teacher Mackensie Heath has been awarded a prestigious scholarship from the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP) to study in Peru for two weeks. Out of applicants from all over the United States, Mrs. Heath was awarded one of only four travel abroad scholarships, which highlights her passion for language education and cultural exploration.

During her time in Peru, Mrs. Heath will take specialized courses designed for non-native Spanish speakers, focusing on advanced teaching strategies and language acquisition. In addition, she will immerse herself in Peru’s rich culture, visiting iconic landmarks like Machu Picchu, living with a Peruvian family, and exploring the historic city of Cusco. These experiences will enhance her ability to bring a deeper cultural understanding into her classroom.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity,” said Mrs. Heath. “It’s an honor to be selected, and I’m excited to learn in an immersive setting while exploring Peru’s language and culture. I know this experience will have a lasting impact on my teaching.”

This scholarship is part of AATSP's efforts to support Spanish educators by providing them with unique professional development opportunities. Mrs. Heath’s trip will not only enrich her teaching but also allow her to share new insights and experiences with her students, helping them connect more deeply with the Spanish language and cultures throughout South America.

With her enthusiasm for travel, Mrs. Heath hopes her journey to Peru will encourage her students to take advantage of opportunities to experience new cultures.