If you had told me months ago that I’d be teaching my Spanish classes online for the rest of the year, I probably would have laughed and thought you were joking. But here we are. Like many teachers, I’ve had to adjust to teaching through a screen instead of in a classroom full of students.

While this change has been challenging, it’s also taught me new ways to connect with students, adapt my lessons, and rethink my teaching style. I’m sharing these tips for anyone teaching Spanish—or any world language—through distance learning. Hopefully, they make your journey smoother and a little more fun.

1. Adjust Your Expectations

This school year is different in so many ways. I had to accept that the way I taught before simply wouldn’t work the same in a virtual classroom. When I sat down to update my syllabus, I realized that about 75% of it didn’t apply anymore. Rules about passes, classroom behavior, and certain assignments just didn’t fit with online learning.

I also made big changes to my grading system. For example, I removed vocabulary and grammar quizzes since they are harder to monitor virtually and students might be tempted to look up answers. Instead, my grades now focus on the three main modes of communication—interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational—which make up 90% of the grade. The remaining 10% is for smaller learning checks.

This new system feels fairer, especially for students who may not have the same resources at home. It also lets me focus on meaningful communication instead of busy work.

2. Build Relationships First

Normally, I’m eager to jump into the curriculum right away, but this year I’ve made building connections with my students my top priority. Relationships are more important than rushing into lessons.

I’ve started using fun icebreaker activities to get to know my students better and let them know I’m here to support them. Many of these activities are easy to adapt for virtual learning, and they help create a friendly, welcoming environment right from the start.

When students feel comfortable with you, they are more willing to speak up, participate, and take risks in learning a new language.

3. Invest in a Second Monitor

If you can, get a second screen. It makes teaching online much easier. With one monitor, you can see your students’ faces, and with the other, you can present slides, videos, or activities. This setup helps you keep that important visual connection without constantly switching between windows.

You don’t need to spend a lot—many used monitors are affordable, and sometimes a small TV will work too. Ask friends or family if they have one they’re not using.

4. Simplify Your Workload

In the past, I graded nearly every assignment. Distance learning has taught me to focus on what truly matters for student growth and to let go of unnecessary grading.

Now, I avoid grading every homework task, and I’ve cut back on activities that don’t add much value. I also use self-grading tools like Google Forms, Quizizz, and Boom Cards. This saves time and allows me to spend more energy on giving meaningful feedback for the work that matters most.

5. Practice Your Tech Tools

Before teaching live classes, practice using your chosen platforms—Zoom, Google Meet, or whichever your school uses. Try features like breakout rooms, polls, and screen sharing. If you use interactive tools like Pear Deck, Kahoot, or Edpuzzle, test them beforehand so you feel confident using them in real time.

It’s even better to practice with a small group of friends, family members, or coworkers. Running through a mock lesson can help you spot technical issues before they happen with your students.

6. Join a Teacher Support Group

Teaching online can feel lonely, especially if you’re the only Spanish teacher at your school. Finding a group of supportive colleagues makes a huge difference.

You can join Facebook groups like Spanish Teachers in the US or smaller, more focused groups such as Spanish 1 Teachers. State world language organizations are also great places to connect with others and share resources. Many of them now offer online meetups and lower-cost virtual conferences.

7. Look at This Year as a Learning Opportunity

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the changes, but there’s also an upside—we’re learning so many new skills. I’ve discovered new technology tools, better ways to simplify my curriculum, and more effective ways to communicate with students.

When we return to in-person teaching, these new skills will continue to make my teaching stronger. Sometimes, big challenges lead to big improvements.

8. Give Yourself Grace

We’re all going to make mistakes this year. Even experienced teachers are learning more about technology and online teaching in a few months than we did in years.

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Take breaks when you can, celebrate small wins, and remember—you’re doing your best in a difficult situation. That’s enough.

Final Thoughts

Teaching Spanish online isn’t easy, but it can still be rewarding. By adjusting your expectations, focusing on relationships, and using the right tools, you can create a positive and engaging virtual classroom. You might even find that some of the things you learn this year will make you a better teacher when you return to a physical classroom.

Above all, be patient—with your students and yourself. You’re learning together, and that’s what matters most.