Sandra is a lifelong global nomad—teacher by training and at heart, and an unabashed lover of the Spanish language and its many cultures. Born in a small rural town in Mexico, raised in the United States, educated in Spain, and having taught in Mexico, Spain, and across the U.S., she embodies the very journey she invites her students to take.
Sandra holds dual citizenship in Mexico and the United States and is currently pursuing Spanish nationality, reflecting her commitment to living the multilingual life she teaches. In Chicago, she carved out a distinguished career as a Spanish instructor for children, teens, and adults—guiding absolute beginners all the way to advanced, heritage, and AP‑level learners.
At SayHolaNow Spanish, language learning is more than grammar and vocabulary—it’s a journey through art, flavor, and tradition that connects students to the heart of the Spanish-speaking world.
Our students have painted vibrant alebrijes, woven traditional Zapotec rugs, created still-life artwork with natural dyes, and ground stone cacao by hand to craft rich Oaxacan hot chocolate. In the kitchen, we’ve cooked up cultural memory—preparing beloved dishes like paella, tamales, turrón, churros, flan, and empanadas, savoring each bite as a taste of language and heritage.
Together, we’ve explored Spain’s architectural gems—the Alhambra, La Mezquita, El Alcázar, and Museo del Prado—and experienced firsthand the histories and artistic legacies that shape the Spanish-speaking world.
At SayHolaNow Spanish, learning happens through doing, tasting, seeing, and celebrating. Our events are designed for learners of all ages to connect deeply with the language through immersive, meaningful experiences.
Join SayHolaNow Spanish and become part of a community that celebrates language through culture, creativity, and connection.
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Let Spanish come alive—beyond the classroom, and into your life.
Whether you’re just beginning your Spanish journey, looking to strengthen your communication skills through a specialized course, or preparing for an upcoming trip with a culture-rich travel workshop—SayHolanow Spanish is your trusted partner in language and cultural learning.
With immersive, engaging classes for adults, teens, and children, you’ll experience the Spanish language in a way that’s personal, practical, and inspiring—no matter where you are in the world.
New classes begin Fall 2025.
Join the waitlist today to be the first to hear when registration opens.
Explore our upcoming course offerings below and start your journey with SayHolaNow Spanish!
Sandra’s multicultural journey—from rural Mexico to Spain and the U.S.—brings unparalleled depth to her teaching. With over 22 years of experience across age groups and learning levels, she offers culturally rich, student-centered instruction rooted in lived experience.
SayHolaNow blends language with culture—through cooking, art, storytelling, and hands-on activities. Students don’t just learn Spanish; they live it—grinding cacao, painting alebrijes, and exploring the architecture of Spain, all from wherever they are.
From preschoolers to professionals, every learner is welcomed with personalized attention. Whether you’re preparing for AP, DELE, or just starting out, Sandra designs each course to match your goals and build your confidence.
SayHolaNow isn’t just a school—it’s a warm, vibrant community. Through the beloved Hola Club, cultural events, and immersive workshops, students form meaningful connections with Spanish-speaking traditions, peers, and their own heritage.
Sandra is the daughter of hardworking Mexican parents who instilled in her a deep love for culture, language, and education. She grew up in a bilingual and bicultural home where Spanish was spoken with pride and English was embraced as a bridge to opportunity. This rich linguistic upbringing became the cornerstone of her passion for teaching and preserving heritage language.
Sandra raised her daughter in a trilingual household—Spanish, English, and French—and has had the joy of watching her grow into a globally minded young adult. Her daughter has lived with her throughout her academic journey and is now pursuing French and International Studies at her dream school University of Miami in FL, a testament to their family’s shared love for language and global learning.
Señora is such a good role model and inspiration to others. She is also an amazing teacher and always made me look forward to taking Spanish. Out of all the Spanish classes I’ve taken hers was by far the best because so was so understanding and made sure to build great relationships with her students.
Señora Tinoco has a special way of teaching that makes learning really fun and not boring at all. She makes everyone feel welcome and excited to be in her class. You can tell she really cares about her students, and she brings so much positive energy every day. I always looked forward to her class because she made it feel more like a fun experience than just schoolwork
Señora Tinoco is one of those rare teachers who makes every student feel seen, supported, and inspired. She teaches with so much heart, and it’s obvious she genuinely cares—not just about how we’re doing in class, but how we’re doing as people. I’ll never forget how patient and encouraging she was, even when we struggled. Her energy is so positive and warm, and I know kids in her camp are going to feel that right away. She makes learning fun, and she creates a space where everyone feels safe to be themselves.
Señora Tinoco is the kind of teacher students remember for life. Her classes are not only filled with learning, but with energy, creativity, and care. Whether you’re playing interactive language games, creating fun projects like Spanish fairytales, or practicing conversation in class, Señora makes learning Spanish exciting and approachable for everyone. She goes beyond teaching vocabulary—she builds confidence, encourages curiosity, and truly connects with her students. Her passion for teaching and genuine care for each student creates a welcoming and supportive environment. Students leave her class not only stronger in Spanish, but stronger as people.
New to Spanish? You’re in the right place. Our A1 beginner course is designed for adults with little to no prior experience, and it will gently guide you into the world of Spanish through meaningful, real-world communication.
Strengthen Your Skills and Speak with More Confidence Already know some basics? The A2 Advanced Beginner course is perfect for adults looking to build upon foundational knowledge and begin expressing themselves more fully in Spanish.
Ready to take your Spanish beyond the basics? The B1 Intermediate course is designed for adults who want to deepen their communication skills, expand vocabulary, and engage in more nuanced conversation. Through interactive activities, engaging discussions, and meaningful real-world tasks, you'll gain the confidence to speak more fluidly and naturally
This B2 course is designed for adult learners ready to take their Spanish to the next level—moving beyond structured conversations into fluent, spontaneous interaction.
Please visit our full schedule HERE.
New to Spanish? You’re in the right place. Our A1 beginner course is designed for adults with little to no prior experience, and it will gently guide you into the world of Spanish through meaningful, real-world communication.
Strengthen Your Skills and Speak with More Confidence Already know some basics? The A2 Advanced Beginner course is perfect for adults looking to build upon foundational knowledge and begin expressing themselves more fully in Spanish.
Ready to take your Spanish beyond the basics? The B1 Intermediate course is designed for adults who want to deepen their communication skills, expand vocabulary, and engage in more nuanced conversation. Through interactive activities, engaging discussions, and meaningful real-world tasks, you'll gain the confidence to speak more fluidly and naturally
This B2 course is designed for adult learners ready to take their Spanish to the next level—moving beyond structured conversations into fluent, spontaneous interaction.
Please visit our full schedule HERE.
Start your language and cultural journey into success!