Odwuar Quiñónez is a kindergarten Spanish teacher at Bryan Elementary School, a dual language school in Lexington, Nebraska, and is graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with his Master of Arts with endorsements in dual language and ELL in May. He shares about his experience in this Q-&-A.
What inspired you to pursue your master's degree in dual language and ELL?
When I returned to the United States at age 10, I was an English Language Learner (ELL). Learning a new language was a challenge, and that experience has always stayed with me. I pursued this degree because I wanted to be better equipped to support students who are learning a second language, while also honoring and incorporating their native languages into the learning process. I’ve always loved working in a dual language setting, and this program allowed me to dive deeper into how I can help my students thrive in such an environment. I’m someone who never stops learning, and this degree felt like the next natural step.
What made Nebraska's program the best fit for you?
As a Nebraska native, choosing the University of Nebraska–Lincoln just felt right. I was born in Lexington in 1997, and a month later, my family moved to Guatemala, where I lived for a decade. When we returned, Nebraska quickly became home again, and I’ve always loved how much support the state provides for first-generation and Latino students like myself. UNL was the best fit for me because it offered both a personal connection and a strong academic path in my field. I’m especially grateful to my supportive advisor, Dr. Theresa Catalano, who encouraged me to continue my education and always believed in my potential.
How has your experience in the program helped shape you as a teacher?
This program has given me more than I could have ever expected. Each of my professors took the time to get to know me and support my journey. One of the highlights was the opportunity to travel to South Korea as part of a Fulbright-Hays Group Projects Abroad grant. From June 10–July 8, 2022, twelve K–12 Nebraska teachers—including me—studied Korean language and experienced the country’s education system. I was proud to represent Lexington Public Schools. The project was led by Dr. Jenelle Reeves, and I returned home with new cultural perspectives and classroom ideas.
I also traveled to Guatemala with UNL professors Ted Hamann and Amanda Morales, a UNL doctoral student, a Fremont dual language kindergarten teacher, and three professors from UNK. Together, we explored how to better support our Guatemalan and newcomer students in Nebraska schools. These international experiences shaped my understanding of intercultural education and expanded the ways I support my students and their families.
What does it mean to you to graduate from Nebraska?
It’s incredibly meaningful to be graduating from Nebraska once again—this time with my master’s degree. I feel proud, excited, and a little bittersweet. This journey has been so rewarding, and I’m especially thankful to the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation for believing in me and helping make this dream more achievable.
How will this degree help you impact your students and community?
This degree equips me with up-to-date, research-based strategies for language instruction. My students benefit directly from what I’ve learned, and I’m proud to contribute to the continued success of our dual language program in Lexington. The ripple effects of this degree extend beyond the classroom, into the community, and into the lives of the families we serve.
What advice do you have for individuals considering this program?
Do it! I’ve truly enjoyed every class offered through UNL. The program is engaging, supportive, and incredibly relevant for anyone passionate about language learning and education. Don’t let anything hold you back. I love this Bible verse that helped me throughout my journey, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
College of Education and Human Sciences
Teaching, Learning & Teacher Education
Strong Communities
