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Within a matter of days, Señor Juan Niera went from Chile to chilly.
“I feel that I like the weather here so much, even though I know I will have to deal with the cold winter,” said Niera, who came from Antofagasta, Chile, to the Flathead Valley as part of an exchange program with FHS teacher Stephanie Baca.
While Niera admits it hasn’t been easy for his family to adjust, he appreciates the warmth and hospitality shown to him.
For Niera living in the U.S. creates new obstacles.
“I’m so far from you and it’s difficult to speak the language,” said Niera.
“Sometimes he speaks Spanish a little too fast, but he’s a great teacher and he’s really cool,” said junior Gabe Jostrom. “He plays his guitar and sings in class.”
Friday in Niera’s class is music day, filled with singing and guitar playing. This not only helps with vocabulary, but is intended to broaden the students’ cultural understanding.
“I try to show a new idea about South America through music,” Niera said.
Niera has been in the valley for two months, and will stay through next July. His family joined him in Kalispell on Sept. 13. His children Paulina, Rodrigo, and Silvia are excited to “share with classmates and meet new people,” said Niera.
The children do not speak English, but several people have volunteered time to work with them on their English.
“They are adjusting so well here,” said Niera. “I have to thank the Literacy Volunteers so much.”
Among the many differences Niera said that people in Kalispell are friendly and seem very happy. He doesn’t see as much stealing in the supermarkets as in Chile, and thinks the streets are clean.
The greatest difference between Chile and Montana is the nature. In Chile, the there are no trees, rain or snow. The tropical weather averages about 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit.
“Here, the mountains are so nice,” said Niera. “My family will go camping in the spring and summer.”
In Chile, Niera taught English at the Jesuit school of 1,150 students.
Said Niera:
“I like it here so much because the teachers have been so kind with me and my family. Most of the students have been able to be understanding, too.”
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