Teacher Spotlight: Catherine Splendore Builds Community Through Language

Since joining NYC Global Center in September 2024, Catherine has brought energy, creativity, and a strong sense of community into her classroom. With over a decade of ESL teaching experience, she began her journey in 2015 teaching in China and Hong Kong before returning to New York to pursue graduate studies at Hunter College, where she also serves as President of the Graduate Student Government.

Her path to NYC Global Center was unexpectedly quick. Looking for morning teaching hours that would fit her graduate school schedule, she applied — and was soon asked to start teaching the very next day.

I sat down with Catherine to learn more about her teaching style, experiences, and advice for students.

What are some of the highlights of your job?

I love the students! One of my biggest priorities is building community, not just connecting with students myself, but helping them connect with each other. When students form friendships in class, it really changes the energy.

Catherine with her students on a field trip in NYC.

How would you describe your teaching style?

I’d say it’s flexible and student-centered. I want everyone to feel comfortable expressing themselves authentically. I use a lot of team-building activities, humor, and spontaneity. I also like bringing in different materials; sometimes my own artwork or personal stories, to keep things engaging.

What are some challenges you face as a teacher?

Cultural differences can sometimes be a challenge. I’m more familiar with some cultures than others, so I have to stay open-minded and learn from my students about what’s normal for them. Another challenge is balancing different motivations — some students are very focused, while others are more casual — so I try to make classes enjoyable and meaningful for everyone.

Catherine, teaching.

Outside of teaching, you are also a conceptual artist working with found objects. How does that relate to teaching ESL?

I see teaching as part of my creative practice. It’s a way to build confidence, share energy, and bring people together, similar to putting things together to create new meaning.

What’s a student success story that has stayed with you?

When I was teaching kindergarten in China, I had a very shy student who didn’t talk much or have friends. We practiced expressing simple emotions every day, like “I’m sleepy,” or “I’m excited!” Over time, he completely transformed. He started making friends, joking, and laughing loudly. His transformation really inspired me.

Catherine leading activities with her students in Shenzen, China.

What’s your #1 tip for ESL students?

Read! It’s one of the best ways to improve your English. You’re building reading, writing, and grammar skills all at the same time, and it can be really laid back and relaxing. I especially encourage students to get a library card, and also read on their commutes.

What do you appreciate most about NYC Global Center?

I love the staff. I’ve left other jobs before because of difficult environments, but here I feel supported and accepted. It’s really meaningful and special.

With her creative approach and focus on connection, Catherine continues to make a lasting impact in and beyond the classroom. At NYC Global Center which hosts F1 visa students as well as domestic students, teachers like her help create an environment where students don’t just learn English — they build confidence, community, and a sense of belonging.