By Alison Young
Every issue of Com-Mini-Cations contains an article about a featured parent, student, alumni or teacher. We felt the honors this time around should go to our interesting, special, wonderful substitute for Pauline, Josette Baker. I decided not to give her the third degree but rather just some nice easygoing questions, so here they are.
(Question #1) What was your first impression of Mini?
The teachers are very supportive of each other and the students. Everyone was very friendly.
(Question #2) Is this the kind of program you would like to teach in full time?
Yes, I think Mini gives teachers a chance to really know the students. However, I would like to have some mainstream experience too.
(Question #3) What do you think of the trips program?
I think it’s great. It’s a wonderful way of learning.
(Question #4) What is the difference between teaching in China and here? (For those of you that don’t know Josette spent some time teaching there)
Kids in China are more naïve, they are much more studious, all they do is study, they have no social life. They even receive homework to work on over summer break! In China learning is by memorization. In the USA high school students learn in school and out. U.S. students know more about living and working. They know what it takes to hold down a job and pay bills.
(Question #5) Where have you taught previous to Mini?
Anchorage Middle School, and Hongzhou, China
(Question #6) Where did you attend college?
First I went to school at St. Benedict, CT. and studied biology. It is a small college near St. Cloud that consisted of all girls. Then I attended the University of Minnesota, and then I studied education at the University of Alaska in Anchorage.
(Question #8) What was your reason for becoming a teacher?
To work with students and share my interest in science.
Well, that’s it. Thanks again Josette!