Tell us about your role and what you like most about it?
As the Director of Student Success, I work very closely with teachers (from PreK to Grade 12), students, and Elmwood families. I also oversee our Elmwood Edge tutoring program, Early Intervention program and our University Guidance Department. I often refer to my role as living the mission of our school; helping each student reach their full potential.
My work with teachers involves supporting their understanding of the unique minds of the students they teach; adding to their already impressive repertoire of teaching tools and techniques. When working with students, I help them reflect on their learning strengths and areas for growth, and together we develop unique and individualized tools that they can use to take their learning to a new level. Parents know their children better than anyone, and when working with students and teachers I rely on their support, expertise and collaboration.
I have been working in this capacity for over twenty years and I absolutely love my job. What I love most about my role are the relationships that I have built with students, colleagues and families over my eight years at Elmwood. I consider it an honour and a privilege to have been a part of the learning journey of so many students.
What is your favourite thing about Elmwood?
The inclusive, warm and family-like atmosphere.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received, and from whom?
Whenever I had a big decision to make in life, and sought the advice of my dad, he would tell me to do what makes me happy. To this day he still signs every email/birthday card/letter with “Have fun, Be happy”.
Another favourite is: “Practice does not make perfect.. But improving on feedback will always make you better”. Dr. Elsa Lo; Educational Psychology Professor and mentor.
If you could choose one superpower to have, what would it be? How would you best use it?
I’d have to choose time travel. I am a huge history buff and would love to go back in time to experience what life was like in different parts of the world at various times in history.
Which word or phrase do you use most often?
I’d say my most popular phrase is “Teamwork makes the dream work!” and the word I use most often is YET.
What is one thing that would surprise people about you?
After my first two years at university I took three years off and worked at an art brokerage firm in Montreal. I loved interacting with beautiful works of art by Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall and Romero Britto (to name a few). It was an amazing life experience and one that really helped give me the space I needed to figure out what I wanted to pursue as a future career.
What is your favourite extravagance?
Travel. I LOVE travelling- especially exploring a new city or country!
What has impressed you most about the start of this year?
The excitement and engagement of the students!