WEST ORANGE, NJ — The world languages department at West Orange High School held its annual honor society inductions April 5 in front of proud parents and family members.
“I like to open every forum that includes the study of languages by saying that I believe proficiency in a second or third language is one of the most important 21st-century skills that young people can develop,” world languages supervisor Mary Quiroz said at the event. “Being bilingual or trilingual is a skill that extends far beyond the classroom. Even if I just include the short list, bilingualism improves cognitive function, opens doors for employment, and invites students to become global citizens.
“We live in a global economy. Our kids will be working with young people from all over the world, yet only 17 percent of Americans are currently bilingual,” Quiroz continued.
Students who met the requirements of acceptance into La Societa Onoraria Italica for Italian, La Societe Honoraire de Francais for French, La Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica for Spanish and the National Chinese Honor Society held candlelighting ceremonies and took pledges during induction into the prestigious honor societies. To be considered students must have an “A” average for three years in their language and at least a “B” average in all other subjects. They must maintain a 3.5 grade-point average for all three years as well. Seniors will receive cords to wear at graduation.
La Societa Onoraria Italica is advised by Vincenza Amabile and Rosanna Zamloot. Its officers are President Brianna Attamante, Vice President Kristina Jaeger, Treasurer Rebekah Pedo and Secretary Vanessa Castaneda. New members include Deborah Alabi, Linda Porcayo, Romina Amedrano, Brooke Reinstein, Abraham Dada, Mayra Tamay, Iveth Gonzales, Michelle Torres, Katherine Minchala, Carolyn Yip and Lindsey Morales.
La Societe Honoraire de Francais is advised by Dana Peart. Its officers are President Sophia Adelson and Vice President Bryce Millington. New members include Marie Amoyaw, Isabella DeFranceschi, Aishwarya Kanagala, Matigan Kohlman and Kefiloe Mutume Segwati.
La Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica is advised by Juan Roncero and Camila Mas serves as president. New members include Kelly Gouin, Steffania LeonQuilli, Ana Olivera, Giselle Perez, Milagros Puelles, Ramiro Reynaga and Joel Yepez.
The National Chinese Honor Society is advised by Yun Abernathy and Yajing Li. Its officers are President Matthew Eng, Treasurer Constance Reznik and Secretary Clare Kelly. New members include Ariel Lee, Umar Mahmood, Ivana Onobogu, Breanna Richards, Nerissa SantaCruz, Amanda Scalora, Peyton Smith, Kerry Su and Acacia Tam.
Photos Courtesy of Cynthia Cumming
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