Today we’d like to introduce you to LaShonda Fields.
Hi LaShonda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hello, I’m LaShonda, and I’m deeply passionate about language education. As a bilingual enthusiast, connector, and plant-based mom of five children, my journey is all about diversity, equity, and purpose. Throughout my career in public education, I’ve taught Spanish at elementary, middle, and high school levels. I am the founder and CEO of My Language Link, an online language school certified by the City of Houston. We provide tailored solutions for K-12 students, libraries, and homeschooling families, as well as large organizations. Whether it’s homework help, tutoring, or personalized conversation buddies, we’re here to support learners of all ages and backgrounds on their language journey.
My journey into learning Spanish began in an afterschool program sponsored by my school district, aimed to provide enrichment activities to afterschool youth. This experience ignited my passion for language learning, leading me to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction. My educational prowess drives me to bridge linguistic and cultural divides. Teaching became my calling as I discovered a profound connection with young students and saw myself reflected in their language-learning journey. I’ve also taught College English and ESL online to non-native speakers. In 2020, during the pandemic, when we were all quarantined, I searched for ways to stay connected with friends and family, so I began teaching Spanish classes on Zoom. It became a catalyst for connection, and I really enjoyed the simplicity of the process and how easy it was to learn from anywhere with anyone in the world. This experience inspired me to create My Language Link, furthering my mission to make language learning accessible to all.
Now, as the Founder and CEO of My Language Link, I contract teachers from around the world to connect and become personal conversation buddies to the communities I serve. I’m able to provide the same resources that helped me realize the significance of language learning and its power to bridge communities and people, and that is a complete JOY!
Whether I’m championing equity programs, designing bilingual innovative curriculum, or exploring healing plant-based recipes, I’m driven by empowerment and purpose.
We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I first began researching programs and opportunities to serve communities online with My Language Link, I quickly realized that the communities that need it the most may face barriers far beyond language, such as access to technology and the internet. At My Language Link, we understand that technology barriers can pose significant challenges for many communities, limiting their access to educational opportunities. To address this, we have implemented a multi-faceted approach to make language learning more accessible.
Firstly, we offer a variety of learning formats beyond just online classes, including downloadable materials and offline activities that can be accessed without an internet connection. Additionally, we partner with local community centers and libraries to provide computer access and internet connectivity for students who may not have these resources at home.
Furthermore, we work closely with schools and educational institutions to advocate for improved technology infrastructure and provide training for educators on integrating technology into their teaching methods. Our partnership programs aim to reduce financial barriers for underserved communities, ensuring that cost is not a deterrent to accessing our language learning services.
By taking a proactive and community-centered approach, we strive to break down technology barriers and make language education accessible to all.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
My Language Link, an online language school certified by the City of Houston. We provide tailored solutions for students from kindergarten to 12th grade, as well as large organizations, libraries, and homeschooling families. Whether it’s homework help, tutoring, or personalized conversation buddies, we’re here to support learners of all ages and backgrounds on their language journey. One of our proudest achievements is becoming a certified vendor for C.A.S.E. FOR KIDS with the Harris County Department of Education, where I have the honor of serving children in underserved populations. This partnership allows us to provide personalized language learning experiences and academic support to those who need it most. Our impact extends statewide, as My Language Link proudly serves the Texas Workforce Commission, assisting refugee children and adults on their journey to fluency in English.
Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our offer of a free trial class to every first-time user. We want everyone to have the opportunity to experience the transformative power of language learning.
And we’re not just stopping in Texas—we’re rapidly expanding across the globe. Our teachers are online and come from all corners of the world. Students have access to teachers in Costa Rica, Mexico, Argentina, South Africa, and beyond. We believe in providing diverse and immersive language learning experiences that transcend borders and cultures.
In a world where language is key to connection and understanding, I strive to be a beacon of inspiration, enriching lives one conversation at a time. “To work in community is to be changed by community, and I am a firm believer that we all need each other.”
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Living in Houston provides an incredible canvas for fostering connections and driving positive change. I’ve found that our city’s diversity and vibrancy mirror my own values of embracing multicultural experiences and promoting inclusivity. Whether it’s through language and cultural exchange or advocating for plant-based living, Houston offers ample opportunities to engage with like-minded individuals and make a difference in our community.
My commitment to growth and changing generational behaviors drives me to value continuous learning and personal development, traits I see mirrored in the dynamic spirit of Houston. My five children inspire every step I take, serving as constant reminders of the importance of education, and cultural appreciation, In my own life, I prioritize passing down these values to my children, empowering them to become agents of positive change in their own right, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Houston’s future.
Pricing:
- $139 – 4 Classes/month
- $249 – 8 Classes/month
- $349 – 12 Classes/month
- $449 – Unlimited Classes
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mylanguagelink.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my.languagelink/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mylanguagelinkllc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lashonda-fields/
Image Credits
Monica Blackshear Photography
