Welcome to the World Languages Department!
¡Bienvenido al departmento de los idiomas extranjeros!
迎来到世界语言部门
(huān yíng lái dào shì JièYǔ Yán Bù mén)
Bienvenue dans le département des langues du monde
Department Chair: Jessica Olson
Graduation Requirements
- 2 credits of foreign language requirements
- After two foreign language credits, we would love to see you progress into furthering your proficiency in a foreign language of your choice
Classes/Languages that we offer
- Spanish (1 - 5/AP)
- Chinese (1-2)
Meet our Department Members Below!
Jess Olson - World Language Department Chair
jolson2@bcps.org
College Attended: University of Pittsburgh
Bio: I am proud to be part of the Woodlawn High School community, where I’ve been teaching for the past four years. With over a decade of experience in the Baltimore County Public Schools system, I bring a passion for education and a deep commitment to my students. Teaching is more than a job for me—it’s my passion, and the classroom is truly my happy place. I find joy in getting to know my students, understanding their unique strengths, and helping them succeed academically and personally. When I’m not in the classroom (which is rare!), you’ll likely find me reading, spending quality time with my daughter and friends, or cooking something delicious!
Gayle Beltrand Travis - World Language Teacher
gbeltrandtravis@bcps.org
College Attended: Carroll CC (AA) UMUC (BA) Goucher College (MAT)
Bio: My name is Mrs. Travis. I am a Spanish teacher in the World Language Department. I've been teaching at Woodlawn High School since 2022. I love soccer and I am a coach for Woodlawn's Boys Varsity Soccer team (go Warriors, USA and ¡Hala Madrid! ). In my spare time, I love traveling, hiking, waterfalls, and a good vanilla chai ;-).
Corin Cole - World Language Teacher
ccole4@bcps.org
College Attended: McDaniel College (BA)
Bio: Hi, I’m Miss Cole, and I’m thrilled to be teaching at Woodlawn. I’m from Maryland and hold a degree in Spanish Language and Literature from McDaniel College. I’m passionate about creating an engaging, inclusive classroom where students can grow academically and personally. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy traveling and exploring new cultures, which I love incorporating into my lessons. I look forward to an exciting school year and to helping students reach their full potential!
Solange Varela - World Language Teacher
svarela@bcps.org
College Attended: UMBC (BS) Goucher (MS)
Bio: Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! My name is Mrs. Varela! I’m thrilled to be entering my 10th year of teaching at WHS and my 16th year in education overall. I’m fluent in four languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Creole, which allows me to connect with a diverse group of students and families. My family is my greatest joy—I’m happily married to my wonderful husband, Leo, and we have three amazing kids: Luna, Leya, and Levi. When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll find me traveling the world, cooking up new recipes, or planning my next adventure. I’m excited to make this year a memorable one for all of us!
Shin-Yee Yu - World Language Teacher
syu@bcps.org
College Attended: University of Maryland, Baltimore County (Bachelors in Political Science and Asian Studies) Goucher College (MA in Teaching)
Bio: Ni hao! I am Ms. Yu, and I am excited to meet you all this coming academic year. Just a little bit about myself, I was born in Taiwan and am a native Chinese speaker. I am very excited to share with you regarding my native language and culture! I came to the United States when I was ten years old. I attended school (college and graduate school included) in Maryland and have also only taught in Maryland since. So I am definitely a true Marylander! I look forward to meeting you and having you in my class. Please feel free to reach out with any questions at [email protected].