A final e-interview from Carmel Schettino, a faculty member in mathematics at the Emma Willard School (NY), who spent some time at Christel House South Africa in Cape Town to share her expertise and learn more about Christel House. She's pictured above with one of our fifth grade classes.

If you haven't yet, read her first and second updates from her trip.

What did you learn about math education at CHSA and what did you share that you think resonated with students/teachers the most?

I think that math at CHSA is in an interesting and challenging dilemma. They are following a national curriculum set by the country of South Africa, which in and of itself has its own problems, but the school has the desire to improve upon that national curriculum in mathematics as well. If they do that, they will not only have to fulfill the standards of the national curriculum, but give themselves additional standards as well like higher-order problem solving skills and others. It will be an interesting issue to face, while not adding too much extra work to their already busy curriculum.

What made the strongest impact on you?

The strongest impact was definitely seeing the students in class and in assembly. Being a part of the community, even for a short time, was really the memory of a lifetime. On a number of occasions, someone would say to me, "you are now part of the Christel House family" and I think they really meant it.

What would you share with the public about Christel House and our students?

What I said to the senior school during my "farewell" assembly time, was that they may not realize what a gift they give to any visitor who comes to their school. It is an amazing experience to be able to see the strength that this community has and the achievements they can accomplish together. I believe that the visit has changed me as a person.

Why is it important to visit a school first hand?

As an educator, there are many things that may seem like a good idea "in theory", but in practice are difficult to imagine. Christel House seems to have been built on an ideal, but it is amazing to see that the practice comes pretty darn close to the vision. However, seeing the school first hand allows you to gain such an amazing sense of perspective and understanding that I'm not sure one can have without actually being there.

What else would you like to share?

I really do believe that this trip has made a huge impact on me as an educator. I am in awe of what the teachers at CHSA do every day, with their time, energy, emotion -and they do it all with professionalism and collegiality. Very impressive, wonderful people.

Thanks Carmel, for your visit and sharing your expertise. You ARE now a part of the Christel House family.

If you're interested in offering your expertise or visiting one of our Learning Centers, please don't hesitate to contact us!

Labels: faculty, math, South Africa, testimonial, update, visitor