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Spanish for Shy People

Learn and practice Spanish as your whole self — no judgment.

Update: Spanish for Shy People is not accepting new clients right now. Follow on Instagram or join the mailing list to hear about updates on our availability.

Based in Chicago, Spanish for Shy People offers individual lessons, guided conversation duos, and free community events.We believe fluency does not look one way, and we prioritize queer, disabled forms of teaching and learning.Most lessons take place virtually, but in-person options are available on a case-by-case basis in Chicago.Need an accommodation? Email us at spanishforshypeople (at) gmail (dot) com.

Spanish for Shy People was created by Monica (she/her), a queer Latina community educator with a BA in English and Spanish. She has taught in both university and public school settings.In her work, she noticed that most language instruction promotes a narrow definition of fluency that leaves no room for atypical communication, gender-diverse folks, or heritage speakers. With Spanish for Shy People, she's bringing inclusive, accessible, and affordable Spanish education to the community.

Update: As of March 2026, Spanish for Shy People has paused accepting new clients. Follow on Instagram or join the mailing list to hear about updates on our availability.

💕Individual Lessons

Most popular option!
60-minute one-on-one sessions with Monica. These can be conversation-focused, or they can get more technical with grammar and vocabulary. Any level of Spanish welcome.Pricing for 2026:
8-Session Bundle: $278
4-Session Bundle: $158
1 Session: $48
Sliding scale available on request

💕Conversation Duos

For self-motivated Spanish learners seeking structure and accountability. Monica will facilitate conversation-focused lessons for you and one other person. Best for intermediate speakers. Read more at our FAQ and interest form.Pricing for 2026:
8-Session Bundle: $352 ($176 per person)
4-Session Bundle: $224 ($112 per person)
1 Session: $68 ($34 per person)

💕Spanglish Socials

Currently on hiatus: Community events for fun, low-stakes Spanish practice with like-minded folks!
In-person events are on the north side of Chicago. Face masks required; N95s available.

⬇️Book a free consultation or your first session here!

Linguistic Justice: Language evolves to suit the needs of its speakers. In both Spanish and English, we aim to use words carefully to tear down hierarchies instead of building them up. This includes promoting use of lenguaje inclusivo, or gender-neutral Spanish.Trauma-centered pedagogy: Many Latine folks have been shamed for speaking Spanish "wrong" in some way. Many neurodivergent and disabled folks have been harmed in language classes as they're forced to conform to dominant modes of communication. Our groups move at the speed that you do.Decolonialism: We recognize that Spanish is a colonial language, spoken by past and current oppressors. We also recognize that Spanish is part of the vibrant present of radical resistance. We hold both truths at the same time.