Saying “Hola” this year is Señora Rayburn, a new Spanish teacher at Dallastown High School.
Though this is her first year here, she has been teaching Spanish for 33 years at many different schools, from Columbia, Pennsylvania to Binghamton, New York.
Rayburn has taught Spanish 1 at all of her schools, and has also taught exploratory and Advanced Placement Spanish and Spanish 2, 3 and 4 throughout her career.
Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Florida, Rayburn finished high school in York. She attended Lock Haven University and was also an exchange student in Puebla, Mexico and Heredia, Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica, Rayburn gained her favorite Spanish saying: “Pura Vida,” which translates to ‘pure life.’
“This expression is how the Costa Rican people live, life is good. No worries. We have each other and we will be fine!” Rayburn said.
Rayburn was inspired to become a Spanish teacher “and develop a passion for the language and culture,” by her own high school Spanish teacher.
“In college, I studied abroad in Mexico and volunteered in two schools, which strengthened my commitment to education. I continued my studies in Spanish and education to share that passion with my students,” Rayburn said.
Apart from teaching, Rayburn also was a waitress in college and a telemarketer for children’s books in high school and college.
As well as teaching, Rayburn enjoys running, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.
Many students at Dallastown enjoy Señora Rayburn as a teacher and her positive personality in general.
“She always goes out of her way to help her students in every way possible. She takes the time to ask how you are or how your day has been, which is appreciated by her students,” senior Anna Hartman said.
Rayburn has another tie to DHS. Her daughter Maggie is a sophomore who has watched her mom give back to students.
“She always thinks of others and wants to help people in whatever way she can.”
And it’s not just students who appreciate Señora Rayburn.
“My favorite thing about Rayburn is her compassion towards anything she holds close to her heart. She loves with 100% of her soul and gives with her all,” Spanish teacher Señora Pomraning said
Being described as caring, thoughtful, adventurous, energetic, compassionate, and disciplined, Rayburn acts as a good role model for students.
“My favorite part about teaching is supporting students in achieving success – both academically and through life skills – while fostering an appreciation for Spanish-speaking cultures. I emphasize empathy and cultural understanding so students can better appreciate diverse perspectives and traditions.”
