For sophomores enrolled in a Spanish class at Mill Valley, most are enrolled in Spanish One, with a few in Spanish Two or Three. There is one exception to this. Unlike the majority of his peers, sophomore Ben Hopener is currently taking Spanish Five.

Hoepner began learning Spanish in sixth grade at Monticello Trails, picking it up almost instantly despite never having learned Spanish before.

“It was just kind of natural for me,” Hoepner said. “I never really had to do a whole lot of practice.”

Upon entering his freshman year, Hoepner was scheduled to begin taking Spanish Two, after completing Spanish One. Due to his well-developed knowledge of Spanish, Hoepner decided he needed more of a challenge and tested out, transferring to Spanish Three. After a few weeks in the class, it became apparent that his understanding of the language was too advanced to gain anything out of the class.

“During the second quarter [of freshman year], my teacher told me that if I wanted to, I could try Spanish Four,” Hoepner said. “I told them I’d give it a shot, so I started Spanish Four and it went well.”

After passing Spanish Four last year, Hoepner is now taking Spanish Five, a course predominantly taken by seniors. Despite the age gap between him and his classmates, Hoepner said he enjoys the class.

“This year is going well and I feel like I’m learning more,” Hoepner said. “Last year when I first started, it was scary because I was in a class with all upperclassmen and it was only my first year of high school. I’ve gotten used to that now.”

World language teacher Edith Paredes said she enjoys teaching Hoepner Spanish Five.

 “He’s an amazing student and a pleasure to have in class,” Paredes said. “It’s difficult to keep the class balanced because I have to keep Ben challenged and make sure the other students can keep up with him.”

If Hoepner passes Spanish this year, he would move on to Spanish Six, a class not currently offered at Mill Valley. Due to this, Hoepner plans to make other arrangements to continue his education of the language.

“I have several options for [next year]. I could go to Johnson County Community College, KU, or I could just do an independent study with one of the Spanish teachers,” Hoepner said. “I’d be teaching myself with a little bit of facilitation. I have not completely decided which route I’m going to take yet.”

Though he plans to continue learning Spanish after high school, Hoepner said he has not made any definite plans for the future.

“I’d like to continue to take Spanish classes in college,” Hopener said. “I’m not sure how or if it will affect my career.”