Throughout the Southwest, adult Americans are heading for the border-- the Guatemalan border-- to learn Spanish.  KJZZ General Manager Jim Paluzzi embedded himself at a Spanish immersion school in Guatemala to learn about this cottage industry. He'll explore who's going there, who's teaching them and why.

Tune in to hear these stories on KJZZ at 6:30 and 8:30 a.m. during Morning Edition

MON., 3/19: WHY SPANISH?
Americans are notorious for being monolingual. Gallup poll research shows that three out of every four Americans can’t carry on a conversation in a second language. If you’re going to learn another language in the Southwest, that usually means Spanish.  Paluzzi investigates why some adult English speakers sought to be bi-lingual and how they’re using Spanish in their lives.



TUE., 3/20: WHY GUATEMALA?
These days, the ability to communicate in Spanish can be a key asset in the job market. To speak with confidence, however, often takes an immersion experience in a Spanish-speaking country. The Central American nation of Guatemala is developing a reputation as the go-to place for Spanish immersion. Paluzzi discovers first-hand why Guatemala is in demand.



WED., 3/21: IT TAKES A MAESTRA
Students are flocking to Spanish immersion programs in countries like Guatemala. It has given birth to a new industry that attracts many women to the business. Paluzzi discovered that when you study with one of these Spanish teachers, your investment is a lifeline.
 
 

 Visit fronterasdesk.org to engage in the dialogue, view pictures and videos, read essays and listen to other audio stories relating to the series-- beginning Monday, March 19.