Lisa Cathro 

A cheerful Jujitsuka, Spanish teacher Lisa Cathro enjoys sharing her love for Spanish with her students. She has taught Spanish for 10 years and loves playing video and board games during her free time. 

How long have you been teaching at FCPS? Do you enjoy teaching at CHS so far? 

I have been teaching at FCPS for only four years. I am so happy to be back in the classroom with my students, teaching during [COVID-19] was so hard because I missed the fun interactions with students in the classroom. Chantilly High School is a lovely school because all the teachers are very welcoming and the school’s color is purple. Purple is my favorite color, so it’s great being able to wear and see purple around the school.

Which periods do you teach at Chantilly High school? 

Unfortunately, I am only here on odd days and I teach period. I also teach at Westfield High School and on the FCPS Online Campus. 

Why did you choose to teach Spanish? 

I decided to teach Spanish because my Spanish teachers were so fun. I am constantly inspired by other teachers. Everyone has their own style and their own way of showing that they care about students; there is so much that we can all learn from each other.  Teachers rock. I think Spanish is such a fun language and I hope to spread that love with others. 

Did you think you were going to become a Spanish teacher when you were young?

When I was young, I just wanted to be a mom. When I finally became a teacher, I was kind of surprised that they let me teach; I am just a regular person who loves kids and the state of Virginia was trusting me to teach. It took me a few years to really believe that I was good enough to be an actual real-life teacher. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

What are your goals for this year?

I want to try some new strategies in order to make Spanish an exciting subject for my students. I took some training over the summer and I hope students are enjoying and engaging in the new activities. I also hope my students enjoy being in class and learn to love Spanish.

What are your hobbies outside of school? 

I play the string bass, video games and all different kinds of board games. I just started learning jiu jitsu a while ago. Jiu Jitsu is so fun. It is such hard work, but it makes me feel so powerful. I have trained at Alpha Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Chantilly. They are super friendly, welcoming and patient.