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About US

Smiling girls sitting at table in elementary class

The Language Spot is a Spanish language school that offers a
variety of services to teach the Spanish language and culture. We recognize the importance of learning a second language and introducing it at an early age. We also see learning Spanish as an important means of creating connections, communication, and understanding with others. Most importantly, we believe learning Spanish is FUN!


Through a variety of services, we teach reading, writing, speaking, listening, and culture. We follow a learner-centered approach in which students actively participate and communicate in Spanish through engaging and developmentally appropriate activities.

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The Language Spot is located at 1703 Clearwater Ave, Suite 105 in Bloomington, right near HyVee!

Meet the Owner/Teacher:


Hola! My name is Karen Grotbo, and I am a licensed Spanish
teacher in Illinois. I have many years of experience teaching
Spanish at all levels and to all age groups, from young children to adults. I love sharing my knowledge of the Spanish language and culture with others!


I grew up in Bloomington-Normal and began learning Spanish when I was in the seventh grade. I loved, and still love, learning about different people and cultures, and I enjoy the challenge of understanding and speaking another language. A study abroad program in Granada, Spain, along with travel to several other Spanish-speaking countries, strengthened my language skills and reinforced my desire to share my knowledge.


After graduating from the University of Illinois with a B.A. in The Teaching of Spanish, I taught Spanish in public schools for five years. I also completed my Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Illinois State University before deciding to stay home with my three children. While raising my family, I taught Spanish when my schedule allowed by tutoring, teaching Spanish in the Continuing Education Department at Heartland Community College, and teaching private classes.


I decided to create The Language Spot because I love teaching Spanish, and I understand the importance of learning a second language and introducing it at an early age. I also want to increase communication and connections within my community and show my students that learning Spanish is fun!

Karen cropped website photo.jpeg
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