The Language Classroom: Providing Timely Feedback That Matters

About the Presenters

Terri Buchholz Hammatt is an Instructional Strategist with Wayside Publishing’s Professional Development Team, where she empowers world language educators through impactful professional learning experiences. Her passion is to inspire the next generation of language learners, preparing them to succeed in a world where multilingualism is the norm.

Terri was elevated by the Republic of France to an Officer in the Order of the Academic Palms after having previously been named a Chevalier. Her career in language and intercultural education began with Boston University’s overseas programs in Heidelberg, Germany, and has since included such roles as teaching French and French immersion in Louisiana, serving as Supervisor of World Languages at the Louisiana State Department of Education and consulting for France’s TV5MONDE. Her diverse experience fuels her commitment to fostering success in a global community where language learning opens doors and connects cultures.

Marnina Falk taught Spanish for nine years in Detroit Public Schools at Foreign Language Immersion and Cultural Studies, where she co-authored the Spanish I and II curriculum using EntreCulturas and led districtwide language training. Before this, she taught English in Costa Rica for two years, developing language programs for children and adults and discovering a love for Latin dance. As a Fulbright-Hays and Fund for Teachers fellow, Marnina explored Afro-Latin culture, creating rich, intercultural resources for Spanish students. Now, as an Instructional Strategist at Wayside Publishing, she supports language teachers nationwide, sharing strategies to make teaching manageable, impactful, and joyful.

As the Manager of Professional Development at Wayside Publishing, Michelle Olah leads a team dedicated to coaching and supporting teachers in implementing proficiency-based teaching. With over 17 years of experience as a world languages consultant and professional development trainer, Michelle has presented numerous workshops on standards-based instruction, ACTFL’s core practices, and target language comprehensibility.

A passionate advocate for language learners, Michelle serves as the Past President and board member of NNELL (National Network for Early Language Learning) and is a current board member of SCOLT (Southern Conference on Language Teaching). Through NNELL and SCOLT, Michelle collaborates with educators to develop resources and initiatives that promote language learning. Michelle’s mission is to empower world language educators with the knowledge and tools they need to create engaging and effective learning experiences for their students.