Headmaster Olga Romero is the founding director of the Dallas Hybrid Preparatory at Stephen J. Hay, the first hybrid elementary school in the state of Texas. This new school aims to transform traditional learning by combining in-person and virtual teaching to create a learning environment that fosters meaningful connections with the local and global community.
To achieve this, Dr. Romero brings in not only her considerable experience – she has been in the Dallas ISD for nearly 10 years and is in her third year as a school principal – but also her background and legacy as a proud Latina and a medical doctor in education.
“By connecting with our communities, I can build bridges of communication, be more inclusive with our leadership, and [build]supportive practices. Our communities feel heard and included when you can listen to their needs, ”she said. “When students see that you look like them, the way they speak and understand their cultural background, they feel they belong and strengthen their commitment to their educational future.”
Dr. Romero was born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, a country known for its beautiful people, fantastic food, outstanding music, but most of all for its strong family connections. “We are proud of our heritage and show it whenever we can. Our Grandmothers [grandmothers]taught us the meaning of family, or family, and our values are rooted in community first, ”said the headmaster.
In 2008, she moved to Dallas from Puerto Rico where her bilingualism and biculture helped her connect with the Hispanic community and other cultures at the Metroplex.
“The Spanish language is much more than speaking the same language. It’s about connecting with others through what makes us unique, diverse and yet so similar, ”said Dr. Romero. “We share the joy of knowing that it is indeed a privilege to be bilingual and bicultural.”
Dr. Romero added that one of the most important features of Hispanic life in the United States today is that “no matter where you are from – El Salvador, Mexico, or Puerto Rico – our culture celebrates each of us like family. We are proud of our heritage; we serve our community con Proud [with pride]and know that our contributions to this great nation are significant. “
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