Lewes educator contributes to bilingual music project for children

Lewes Elementary School recently announced that its Spanish immersion teacher Verónica DeBartolo is collaborating on a unique project, using her voice and expertise in an exciting new bilingual children’s music initiative. The project is designed to support language development, storytelling and cultural connection.

DeBartolo is a featured vocalist in a growing project titled Mairim Enchanted Songs (Mairim Cuentos en Cantados) that produces educational and recreational bilingual songs for children. While the original songs are written and performed in Spanish, she records the English versions of the songs, helping the project reach a wider audience and ensuring that both bilingual and English-speaking learners can enjoy and learn from the music.

“Being part of Mairim has been incredibly rewarding for me,” DeBartolo said. “The goal is to give children songs that spark curiosity, build vocabulary, and tell real stories while celebrating both English and Spanish languages. I’m grateful for the chance to help create these resources that support bilingual learners and bring the joy of language to even more families.”

Mairim’s mission is to offer children higher-level, story-based songs enriched with meaningful vocabulary, an alternative to the simplified lyrics often found in traditional children’s music. By making each piece bilingual, the creators aim to support dual-language learners, strengthen literacy skills, and foster a love for language and storytelling. In addition to music, the team behind the project is developing educational activities to accompany each song, giving teachers and families tools to extend learning beyond listening. Though still in its early stages, the initiative is steadily gaining momentum, and drawing interest from educators and families alike.

“We are proud to support innovative educators who share their talents both inside and beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Kimberly Corbidge, Lewes Elementary principal. “This collaboration highlights the creativity, cultural responsiveness and dedication found within our Spanish immersion program, benefiting students locally and children around the world.”

See more information about the project at mairimcuentosencantados.com and access all of the English and Spanish song recordings at youtube.com/channel/UCqVGBF08w6qO41vR13V6xRw.