TFS - Canada's International School

Eugénie Benoit came to TFS 17 years ago after moving to Ontario from Quebec, her home province. She was hired to teach Junior Kindergarten at the Toronto campus and in 2007 she switched over to the West Campus, where she took on a new role as a resource teacher in 2010. She provides in-class supports for students and teachers across a number of subjects – reading, writing and math – as well as social-emotional learning. She further focuses on student well-being by helping them develop strategies to resolve conflicts. During student workshops, she fosters mindfulness and provides a Zen corner in her office, so that they can reflect in a private setting. Serving as a resource teacher has been rewarding for Mme Benoit and a great fit for her skill set; she studied differentiated teaching and learning to enable all students to achieve academic ambition. In collaboration with the principal, she develops thought- provoking student mentoring sessions to set the stage for consideration and discussion, which helps students develop their critical thinking and ability to express themselves in a sophisticated manner. She leads a group of Grade 1 students who gather to share their thoughts on a range of age-appropriate topics. "Mentoring is very close to my heart," explains Mme Benoit. "It's really important to assist students with the development of their critical thinking, to ensure that they become reflective and engaged citizens of the world." Mme Benoit might kick off the conversation with questions inspired by philosophical questions that align with the core values of the school, world events, a short video, photo or story. They may wonder about, "What are some of the reasons we have friends?" or "Why do we have to make an effort?" Discussions may also be prompted by ideas from the children themselves. The outcomes are interesting and enlightening, providing pupils with opportunities to show respect for others' perspectives, particularly when opinions differ from their own. "It's wonderful to see the students evolve," says Mme Benoit. "Early in the year, they might be shy about sharing their thoughts. But as time goes on and they understand they are in a safe space where they can freely communicate their views, you can see them open up." Critical thinking is a crucial skill for young people to have. "There's a light in their eyes during our sessions," she explains. "They are so engaged. I can see the wheels turning OUR EDUCATORS Eugénie Benoit: The Skills Builder Learning Strategist, West Campus Mentoring Tomorrow's Citizens of the World Today I know that they'll leave our school with an ability to navigate their way in the world and to understand it. as they think carefully about their responses. I look forward to them developing, growing up and becoming thoughtful citizens. I know that they'll leave our school better equipped to navigate their way respectfully in the world and to better understand it. It's just one of the reasons why I love my job." 28 TFS ENTRE NOUS 2018

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