Our story
La Colmena is a Spanish immersion preschool dedicated to creating a safe, loving, and respectful space where children feel at home. In a warm and welcoming family environment, our little ones grow and develop while acquiring language, social, and academic skills that prepare them for a future full of possibilities. We focus on awakening curiosity, fostering creativity, and teaching respect for cultural differences, providing a solid foundation for their holistic development.
Our name, La Colmena (The Hive), represents our philosophy of collaboration and community. Just like in a hive, where each bee plays an important role in the success of the group, we promote teamwork, mutual respect, and the value of contributing to the common good. At La Colmena, every child learns that their unique strengths and efforts are valuable in building a community where everyone can flourish.
A message from our founder
As the founder, director, and lead teacher at La Colmena Early Learning in Spanish, I am passionate about creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Teaching as a Foreign Language from UNAM (National Autonomous University of Mexico), and a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) certification from CEI (Language Learning Center), FES Acatlán, which is also part of UNAM. With this strong foundation in bilingual education and language acquisition, I am committed to providing a high-quality curriculum at La Colmena.
For over five years, I have had the privilege of serving as the founder and director of Cedar Mill Bible Church en Español’s Children’s Ministry, where I build and lead programs designed to support children’s spiritual and educational growth. Additionally, for the past three years, I have offered private tutoring services to immigrant children, helping them acquire a second language, improve their reading and math skills, and learn both English and Spanish. This experience has deepened my understanding of bilingual education and the unique needs of diverse learners.
I’ve always had a deep love for languages because they’re so much more than just tools for communication—they’re bridges to new cultures, ideas, and ways of thinking. Being bilingual isn’t just about speaking two languages; it’s about expanding your world and seeing things from different perspectives. It opens doors to new relationships, new opportunities, and a richer understanding of the world around us.
For me, being bilingual has been a gift that has helped shape who I am. It has allowed me to move between cultures with ease, embrace different traditions, and connect with people in a more meaningful way. And that’s something I’m really passionate about sharing with my students. I want them to experience the joy and growth that comes from speaking two languages and to feel confident in exploring and engaging with the world in a way that’s open and full of possibilities.
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-Silvia Barragán
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​​"Silvia's dedication and expertise transformed my daughter's learning journey. Struggling in first grade due to a language barrier, she regained confidence through Silvia’s patient guidance. Not only did she learn to read in English and Spanish, but she also caught up with her peers and now participates in a state reading competition. Silvia’s personalized approach made all the difference. We are forever grateful!"
—Alejandra Navarro, Parent
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"Silvia's work is impeccable! She balances structure with warmth, earning the love of her students. Her personalized approach, like finding books that spark my son Fernando’s interest, has been invaluable. Thanks to her guidance, his literacy skills have flourished. Silvia’s dedication and well-structured lessons make all the difference!"
—Lorena López, Parent
Silvia’s teaching is exceptional! Her well-structured lessons, quality materials, and warm approach make learning enjoyable and effective. She helped Andrea overcome a reading delay and build confidence, turning her into an eager reader. Daniel, in kindergarten, has also made incredible progress in reading and pronunciation. Silvia’s dedication and personalized methods truly make a difference. La Colmena will be an amazing opportunity for many children!"
—Lorena Gutierrez, Parent​
"I love Maestra Silvia’s classroom! It’s always clean, and she has an amazing collection of books. She is so nice, funny, and has helped me a lot!"
—Andrea Urzua, Student
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"Silvia’s structured approach and clear goals allowed us to be active in our daughter’s learning journey. She started with a literacy delay, and now she not only meets expectations but is a role model in her class. Her confidence has soared, and we couldn’t be happier! Thank you, Silvia, for your dedication and the incredible impact you’ve made!"
—Monse Capiello, Parent
"Silvia’s warmth and expertise inspired confidence from the start. Her commitment and professionalism have been essential in my daughter’s literacy journey, providing us with interactive tools to support her learning. Silvia has been a pillar not only for my daughter but for our entire family. We are forever grateful!"
—Teresa Magaña, Parent
Our
Philosophy
At La Colmena, we believe every child has unique potential. Learning flourishes in a safe, stimulating, and meaningful environment where children feel valued and supported. Guided by our motto, "Nurturing Confident Minds, Together", we foster curiosity, creativity, and essential life skills through hands-on experiences, collaboration, and immersion in a second language.
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We emphasize active exploration, creative expression, and connections to each child’s interests and realities. By cultivating confidence, empathy, and a love for learning, we prepare children to thrive in a global world and reach their full potential.
Mission
To foster a genuine connection with Spanish in every child through immersive experiences that stimulate their curiosity, creativity, and holistic development, while promoting an appreciation for diversity.
Vision
To position ourselves as the leading reference in Spanish immersion education, transforming lives and inspiring children to be empathetic, creative, and culturally aware.