Members of SHA pose for a photo after the meeting. The club takes a picture after each meeting. “[The club] is open to everybody,” said Taylor-Arnold. (Photo provided by Haydee Taylor-Arnold)

Jan. 14, a group of Ladue students came together in room 1310 to celebrate and practice their Spanish speaking skills. Sociedad Hispanica de Amistad (SHA) is a club that encourages students to study the Spanish language and improve their communication skills in and out of the classroom. The club is sponsored by Spanish teacher Haydee Taylor-Arnold, who teaches Spanish 1 and 4.

“[SHA] is more cultural [than class],” said Taylor-Arnold. “The society focuses on ambassadorship and also service to the school and community.”

Students Ritwik Ashok (12) and Madison Stockwell (11) are co presidents of the club. For the meeting yesterday, they planned a slide show that covered the day’s activities and upcoming events. Both students use the club to improve their Spanish skills.

“I joined SHA because [a teacher] told me it was a good way to practice Spanish,” said Stockwell. “I really like it because of all the projects we do.”

Taylor-Arnold aims to continue growing the club as a way to foster a community for new and old students in all levels of Spanish. The club is currently planning their performance for the talent show.

“I really am passionate about the opportunities that students can have to connect with each other,” said Taylor-Arnold. “Sometimes in class we have a curriculum we are following, but after school we can do different things.”