Q) What inspired you to become a teacher?
My mother was a teacher, and I grew up surrounded by her passion for education. At home, we had a big chalkboard from the school she had created in Carcassonne, France. Even after she sold the school, she brought that board home, and I spent countless hours writing on it, studying, and pretending to teach. I think that’s where it all began.
At first, I wanted to become a dance teacher, then a PE teacher, but over time, I realized my real passion was working with younger children, watching them learn and grow. I took both the exams for elementary education and PE, and when I was admitted as an elementary school teacher, I knew I had found my path. I’ve always loved that I can include my passion for physical education in my daily teaching.
Q) What do you love about teaching at the French American Academy?
My husband and I have always loved traveling and discovering the world. We’ve lived in Cambodia for five years, in Singapore for ten, in Qatar for one, and now this is our second year in the U.S. I truly enjoy teaching in different places, surrounded by diverse cultures and children from so many backgrounds.
Each time, it’s a challenge I love to take on, to share my native language and culture while learning from my students’ own.
Q) What do you enjoy most about teaching French?
I love exploring how our language works, its structure, rhythm, and especially its expressions. For example, “être têtu comme un âne” (to be as stubborn as a donkey)! These idioms and the richness of vocabulary make French such a fascinating and expressive language to teach.
Q) What surprises you most about your students?
They amaze me with how easily they switch from one language to another and how adaptable they are. They’re always ready to follow me on new learning adventures, whether we’re exploring stories, concepts, or creative ideas.
Q) How did you become involved in sustainability leadership?
This was always something in the back of my mind, but last year I had the opportunity to take on the role of Sustainability Coordinator. After living in several countries, I’ve become deeply aware of the global environmental challenges we face.
I believe teaching is one of the most important professions, shaping future generations and guiding them to care for our planet. Working with our eco-delegates is a joy: they are motivated, inspiring, and full of ideas. This role has truly become a passion of mine.
Q) Can you tell us about a recent eco-project?
One of my favorite initiatives was our worm composting project, a small box full of life that fascinated the students. It wasn’t just for our eco-delegates; everyone who ate in the cafeteria took part by sorting their waste and caring for the worms and roly-polies inside. This year, I’m excited to start a new project to make our school greener by planting and bringing more nature to campus.
Q) What’s one small action everyone at the FAA can take to help the planet?
Simply turn off the lights and projectors when leaving the classroom or going to recess. It’s such a small gesture, but if we all do it, it can make a big difference.
Q) What do you hope your students remember most from your class?
I hope they remember what I tried to pass on to them:
- Love life.
- Stay curious.
- Always do your best.
- Listen to others.
- Follow your passions.
If they carry those values, they’ll grow into kind, open-minded people ready to make a difference.
Q) What inspires you outside of school?
I love spending time in nature and being around animals; it helps me recharge. I also love dancing, yoga, roller skating, biking, sewing, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends. Nature and movement help me stay balanced and inspired for the classroom.
Q) Do you have a personal motto?
Be yourself. Always.
