This term I have received the Teacher of the Term award for Term 2. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective spirit, collaboration, and growth mindset that thrives within our school community.
This term has been a deeply rewarding journey in my Grade 4 classroom, where I teach Math, Science, and Social
Studies. I believe that children learn best when they are engaged, curious, and feel safe to explore, question, and make mistakes. To bring this belief to life, I introduced several new approaches to my teaching. In Math, I used interactive games, problem-solving stations, and making real life connection to make abstract concepts feel fun and accessible. It was wonderful to see students excited about math, working in teams, and developing confidence with every new topic.
In Science, one of the most memorable activities was a project where students created musical instruments using recycled materials. This not only helped them understand sound, pitch, and vibrations through hands-on exploration, but also encouraged sustainability, creativity, and critical thinking. In Social Studies, I brought lessons to life through storytelling, role-playing, and cultural comparison tasks that allowed students to see the world from different perspectives.
One of the most meaningful parts of this term was supporting a student with learning difficulties. With my background in Special Education, I conducted an informal assessment using a learning disability checklist and created a personalized support plan tailored to his needs. It was heartening to see his confidence grow and his participation increase as we worked together with care and patience. This experience reminded me that with the right strategies and understanding, every child can thrive.
To my fellow teachers, I would like to say that this award is not about being perfect it’s about being passionate, reflective, and student-centered. Small changes, like adding a game to a math lesson or using visuals for a struggling learner, can make a big difference. Be bold in trying new ideas, take time to understand your students deeply, and never underestimate the power of joy in the classroom. Share your wins, learn from each other, and celebrate progress in all its forms.
This recognition encourages me to keep pushing boundaries, to stay creative, and to continue building a classroom where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow. As teachers, we have the unique privilege of shaping not just minds, but mindsets and that is a gift worth honoring every day.
“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” – Brad Henry