Education:
- BA/HTD
in Education, Cape Town Teachers College, Cape Town South Africa
- 1977
Background:
-
Twenty
three years of service as a teacher at Upper and Middle schools
in South Africa and Namibia; Responsibilities and accomplishments:
Administrative Head; Head of Department; Senior English; Chairperson
of English Committee for In-Service Training; lecturer and course-presenter;
liaison within the Ministry of Education (Namibia); Public Relations
and Media Representative; educational program production for
National Broadcasting Corporation; implementation and supervision
of the IGCSE (the International General Certificate of Senior
Education from Cambridge University, United Kingdom) the new
academic curriculum for Namibia; awarded three service merit
awards in three consecutive performance reviews; planning organization
and co-ordination of fundraising; editor of the school yearbook
(1984 – 1993) (1993 – 1998); coach for debating and public speaking;
co-producer for musical revues and dramatic productions. Further
responsibilities within the Ministry: examiner and moderator
for National Education; course planner and presenter for affiliated
associations.
- Highlights
of my career have included the introduction of new curricula,
chairing committees and presenting a number of courses involving
art and drama in communication; the purpose being to motivate
and provide innovative ideas for students and teachers from diverse
backgrounds. This included promoting the use of multi-media in
the classroom, as well as creative thinking and the use of alternative
resource materials. I am passionate about education and I believe
in the growth and enrichment of the individual through the process
of self-discovery and interaction within a holistic environment.
Philosophy
of Education:
- As
a teacher and adviser, I aim: to embrace all students, acknowledge
their individuality, and work to realize the inherent potential
in each; to share a rich store of knowledge and experience, to
foster a knowledge and appreciation of literature and writing,
which will enhance their understanding of themselves, their world,
and the evolution of human culture, and most importantly to teach
with love, empathy and humility. As a team player, I contribute
my strengths and talents so as to be an admired and respected
member of a dynamic group of upper school educators. I also tap
into my leadership experience and curriculum management skills,
to provide assistance and support for the division head.
Interests
and Activities:
| My
husband, John, our son, Jonathan and I have made the United
States our home. We love to travel, and it is this adventurous
spirit we share, that has taken us on many journeys and provided
a wealth of experiences and memories. My two other great loves
are cooking and reading. I am happiest on the beach or out in
the country, and there are times when I think of Africa; the
sun, the sky and the raw earth smell. |
|
On
a Personal Note:
- The
greatest rewards in teaching are not found in any monetary compensation
or illuminated testimonials. They come, sometimes unexpectedly,
in the connections you make with young adults. Perhaps one of
the greatest tributes I have been paid was written by an African
student shortly before her graduation. When I am looking for inspiration,
I turn back to this simple yet heartfelt message:
What
we learned in your class crossed the boundaries of everyday
education, and provided us with something that we can build
on ... In your class I experienced a freedom of being. You set
your standards, and in a very subtle way you guided and helped
us achieve them. You gave us a chance to explore our abilities
and broaden our horizons, but you never forced your personality
or ideas upon us. The thing I appreciated most was that you
accepted us for who we are. Thank you for tolerating horrible
tenses and poor vocabulary. I hope that we will live up to your
expectations and that you then will take pride in the part you
played.
Ronel - Windhoek, Namibia
(1989)
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Revised
January 31, 2005 |
