Armida Bautista-Hansen was born and raised in Lima, Peru, where she discovered her passion for teaching at an early age. She pursued her studies in Education, specializing in Early Childhood Education, at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú in Lima. She also completed postgraduate studies in a second specialization at the same university. In Peru, Armida worked as a preschool and kindergarten teacher. In 2000, she had the opportunity to participate in the Amity Intern Program, where she worked in a kindergarten classroom at Park Spanish Immersion School in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. In 2005, Armida made one of the biggest decisions of her life: she moved to Minnesota, United States. It was a significant transition—a new language, a new culture, and a completely different climate, especially the snow and cold! Leaving her home country and family was not easy, but she embraced this new chapter with an open heart, a hopeful spirit, and excitement about the possibilities ahead. Since moving to Minnesota, Armida has worked as a first and second grade teacher in several Spanish Immersion schools. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of watching countless students grow into confident, bilingual learners. Her passion for language, literacy, and learning has continued to inspire her both personally and professionally. Armida has always believed in continuing to grow as an educator. She pursued a Master’s degree in Spain, focusing on teaching Spanish as a second language, further strengthening her knowledge and passion for language education. Today, Armida lives in Savage, Minnesota, with her husband, Matt, and their daughter, Rosabella. She brings more than 20 years of teaching experience to ISLA, along with a deep love for teaching, Spanish language and culture, and helping children become confident and successful learners. There is still so much ahead for Armida, and she looks forward to all the possibilities this next chapter will bring. She is very excited to begin her journey at ISLA and to continue sharing her love for language and learning with her students and their families.