MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Although much of her role as principal involves administrative work, the Global Academy of Education's (GAE) Charlene Schaefer (51) says she absolutely loves teaching.
After finishing her school career here in Mossel Bay, she initially spent 10 years in the retail industry before following her true passion.
"My teaching career, interestingly enough, began at GAE, where I worked until we moved to Cape Town in 2005."
There she joined the International School of Cape Town. After returning to Mossel Bay in 2011, she started working at Milkwood Primary as the library teacher in 2012. In 2014, she became the Grade Four teacher and remained there until the end of 2018, when she returned to GAE as principal.
To this day, Grade Four remains her favourite grade to teach. "I still teach almost every day. Watching children grow, develop confidence and mature over the course of a year is one of my greatest joys."
Having been schooled at both Park Primary and Point High, Schaefer's passion for education is as home-grown as can be. "My biggest inspiration was my Grade Two teacher at Park Primary, Mrs Munrou. She had a remarkable gift for making every child feel valued and special, and her influence stayed with me."
In a way, Schaefer's personal yearly highlight at GAE, presenting the principal's award, spreads Mrs. Munrou's gift even further. "The learners who have received it in recent years continually inspire me with their perseverance and personal growth, often achieved through challenging circumstances. Their stories remind me why I love this profession.
"What makes GAE unique is that I can interact with learners across all ages - from our little ones, whose innocence and trust are heart-warming, to our senior and high school learners, with whom I can engage in meaningful, thoughtful conversations," Schaefer says.
As far as challenges go, she highlights a great responsibility: ensuring that every decision made truly serves the best interests of the learners and supports their holistic development.
"Managing expectations - particularly from the parents - can also be challenging.
"At present, one of our biggest ongoing challenges is navigating the requirements of the local municipality and government institutions as we work to expand and secure new premises for our growing school community."
Amid the responsibilities, challenges and all other parts of daily principal life, Schaefer says she relies on the grace and wisdom of God to guide every decision and action. "Without that, my leadership would not succeed."
And when she steps away from her leading role at school, at home she enjoys exercising, watching movies and series, and reading when she gets the chance. "I especially love crime and detective series - they're my favourite way to relax."
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