Our new science teacher has a lot of experience teaching biology and chemistry across three continents. We have asked Evelyn about her teaching philosophy and the time she felt she made a difference in a student's life.


What is your favorite thing about teaching?

My favorite aspect about teaching are my students; they are the core reason I enjoy teaching. The interaction I get with them and how they evolve from having none or little understanding of the concepts to enjoying and grasping the various contents we learn in class is encouraging. I enjoy facilitating students’ understanding of the course content and the Aha moment when they see the link between what they are learning and how it affects their lives and/or environment.

What is your teaching background, and what drew you to Le Sallay’s blended learning model?

My teaching spans high school and college levels teaching biology, microbiology and general chemistry across continents of Africa, Asia and America. Le Sallay’s blended learning model makes the process of learning interesting, versatile and gives the students the opportunity to learn at their own pace. This is important for the dynamics of engagement and motivation both inside and outside the classroom.

What is your teaching philosophy?

My philosophy of teaching science centers on discovery. Students need to recognize and realize that science is all around us and is waiting to be uncovered. It is essential that my students discover and be involved in their learning path. Engagement and interest in what they learn heightens their understanding of core concepts and applications. I believe that guiding students on how to answer their own questions about science through investigation, hands-on activities, trying new things and ideas will enrich their experience. It is valuable to provide authentic learning opportunities to enable students to become involved in “real-world” projects.

We’ve all had incredible teachers that ended up making an impact on our lives. Can you tell us a time when you felt like you made a difference in a student’s life?

I had a student who had missed classes due to personal issues and was lagging in classwork, assignments and quizzes. I took time to encourage and support her by offering my time to coaching her for several sessions outside the regular class. With proper guidance, she passed her finals. Due to the impact I made in my student’s life, I received a thank you note from the student through the college. Having a student come back to say thank you or update you about themselves says a lot. They know that you are genuinely interested in their success.

What were you like in middle school?
I was easygoing. I enjoyed most of my classes, especially history and geography. These were interesting and new knowledge and I had the affinity to learn. Looking back, I liked the teachers too!

If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?
Enjoy each moment. Be intentional in your learning. Every challenge is an opportunity.