Teacher Profile: Stephanie Fedorowicz

Year(s) and Subject(s) Taught: Assistant Principal - Student Profile (Character, Well-Being, Teaching And Learning)

How long have you been teaching?

18 years.

Why did you become a teacher? Why did you choose teaching as a profession?

I was an investment banker, but I chose to move into education, as I wanted to do something that had a strong positive impact on society. Teaching has a real moral purpose, which motivated us all to work hard.

Tell us about your own education journey.

I did my teacher training (PGCE) in Oxford, England.

What is the most memorable moment in your teaching career so far?

My most memorable moment was the first day SJIIM opened - it was such an adventure!

What do you like most about teaching?

Connecting with young people in a way that helps spark their motivation, interests and potential.

What is the best thing about teaching at your school?

The ethos at SJIIM is one of a trusting caring community, where we work together towards a common purpose - the staff, students and parents are a wonderful team!

Who or what inspires you?

Michelle Obama inspires me - her quote, ‘when they go low, we go high,’ is up in my office.

Tell us about your online teaching experience. Did you face any challenges?

The most challenging part about online teaching is that sometimes you can see a pupil needs support, and you might have to try three or four different ways to do it for them to be successful, whereas in the classroom, it is much more straightforward.

What lessons did you learn in 2020?

To me, the key virtues needed for this year have been flexibility, creativity and understanding. With all that everyone is going through, I have worked to be more patient with others and try to always show kindness.