Teacher: Ms. Garlow
For the first time, JVA is offering a World Languages & Culture class! Taught by our German teacher, Ms. Garlow, this class gives students the opportunity to learn more about different cultures and has a special focus on learning German. The class is fun, engaging, and has real-world importance. Ms. Garlow is so happy to be teaching this class and we thank her for her time and thoughtful insights!
Share a little about yourself:
I’ve been teaching German and Dutch to learners of all ages and levels since 2017. Originally from Welbergen, Germany, near the Dutch border, I’ve always had a passion for languages and cultures. I studied European Business in Germany and the UK before earning my Master’s in International Business & Marketing. I worked as an international area manager in the heating industry, where I loved connecting with people from different countries before starting my teaching career.
I began my public school teaching career at Arvada West High School (2019–2024) and am excited to be teaching for JVA since the 2024/25 school year. I’ve lived in the U.S. since 2015 and love exploring Colorado with my husband Dave, and our dogs, Otto & Leo — camping, mountain biking, and hiking in the summer, and snowboarding and skiing in the winter! I am also a big fan of Pickleball and have become quite good at it 🙂
What does the class cover throughout the semester and what students will learn in the class?
This course explores the richness of global cultures and languages, helping students understand what unites and differentiates societies worldwide. We’ll look at cultural universals—such as arts, recreation, social structures, and worldviews—while discussing what defines culture and how language shapes identity. Students will take virtual journeys to different countries and gain an understanding of German, with introductions to French and Spanish as well. Through interactive activities and cultural comparisons, this course encourages a deeper appreciation for diversity while building familiarity with different languages and some basic conversational skills with a focus on German.
What’s your favorite part of the class?
My favorite part of this class are the amazing discussions with my students. They bring thoughtful insights and unique perspectives, making our exploration of world languages and cultures even more enriching. I love seeing how they connect ideas, share their experiences, and grow in their appreciation of different cultures. I also really enjoy the lesson planning process—finding creative ways to introduce cultural concepts, designing virtual journeys, and making language learning both engaging and meaningful. I have a great passion for languages and cultures and that makes this class exciting and very enjoyable for me.
What do you want others to know about the class?
I want others to know that this class is an exciting and interactive journey into world languages and cultures. We explore what connects and distinguishes societies through engaging discussions, virtual journeys, and creative activities. Language learning comes to life in fun ways—through music, storytelling, cultural comparisons, and real-world connections. I love working with enthusiastic students and seeing their curiosity and contributions makes every class a rewarding experience. This class isn’t just about learning languages; it’s about developing a deeper appreciation for the world and the people in it!
