My name is Katharine McLaughin-Wingert and I am from Niagara Falls, Canada. Since I was little, I have always wanted to be a teacher and to travel the world. So, it is no surprise that I find myself in a job where I get to do both. Having taught and lived in Tokyo for six years, I was able to travel throughout Asia. Now that I am in my fourth of teaching in Kuwait, I am able to continue my love of travel on my off time. Some of the countries that I have traveled to include Singapore, Thailand, Oman, Istanbul, UAE, Scotland and Hong Kong.
During my first two years at BBS, I completed my Masters’ in Leadership. BBS is supportive of its’ teachers and helps them to grow, allowing teachers to take the time for PD. Subsequently, I was fortunate enough to travel to both Qatar and Istanbul to attend NESA. BBS offers teachers a great opportunity to grow, learn and to excel.
In the past few years, I have incorporated Tribes in my classroom. This has helped with inclusion amongst my students. They are able to freely share ideas in a safe environment. As a teacher, I believe that students should feel safe in sharing their ideas, as this will help them to grow as a learner. They know that it is alright to make a mistake and to try again. Discovering Gifts in Middle School: Learning in a Caring Culture Called Tribes is a wonderful addition to any teacher’s classroom library. There are great ideas and resources that can be incorporated into the classroom.
My personal philosophy is that as a teacher, I should be lifelong learner. I am usually enrolled in some type of course or other. This allows me to share my triumphs and my defeats with my students. It also helps them to know that it is okay to be scared to try something new, and that the reward at the end outweighs the fear. At this time in my life, I have just started learning to scuba dive. Who knows what I’ll try next, but I am sure that my next adventure is just around the corner.
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