Teacher Spotlight: Ms.Vander-Baan

Teachers in a lot of ways can leave a really big impact on students, often in ways that they might not even know yet. As someone who had Ms. Vander-Baan as an English teacher and club leader, I really got to see how amazing, kind, and welcoming she really is in any type of classroom setting. She isn't just passionate about English and Team World Vision so kids all over the world get access to actual clean water, but she also loves helping her students grow and feel supported, just like I did. This teacher spotlight is going to be one of my favorites to do because I get to show everyone a little bit more about her, including her faith and interests, which are actually shockingly interesting.

Q: What is something that makes you smile, even on a stressful day?

A: “Students who care not just about their studies, but care about others. When people are thinking about somebody other than themselves, that makes me happy. People being kind to each other makes me very happy and also makes me smile.”

Q: What is your favorite book or story that you grew up with?

A: “The Secret Garden and Mary’s transformation.”

Q: What is something that students might be surprised to learn about you?

A: “I can ride a unicycle!”

Q: What is one thing you love doing when you’re not teaching?

A:  “I love music, hiking, and going to church.”

Q: Is there a Bible verse or piece of advice that inspired you throughout your life?

A: “You don’t really have to say anything about the Bible because it comes down to, you know, loving your neighbor and all that kind of stuff. But above all, always be kind, because everyone is fighting a hard battle. That’s what I try to remember.”

Q: Who is someone who has had a big influence on the person you are today?

A: “When I was a kid, it was my grandma. She was a rock-solid human being, and had a deep faith, which I admired her for.”

Q: If you could spend a whole day anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: “I feel like I want to say someplace tropical, but I have also never been to New Zealand. So, I want to go there someday, or maybe Greece, or go back to Africa.”

Q: What is something you have always wanted to accomplish but haven't gotten the chance to do it yet?

A: “I have always wanted to publish a children’s book. I've written some, but I have never been able to publish them.”

Q: What are some personal or teaching goals you hope to accomplish in the next few years?

A: “I think the most important thing for me is to connect with my students, to know that they are cared about, and to help them to thrive in the future.”

Q: When you look towards the future, what is something you are really excited about?

A: I am really excited to travel and to have grandchildren.

After having Ms. Vander-Baan during my Junior year as one of my English teachers, I can honestly say I wish I could have her again this year, but sadly I couldn't. Her class was always filled with learning, laughter, and lots of memories. In her young life and in her Team World Vision Club, I will always appreciate it a lot. I’m so glad I got the chance to get to know her and have her as a teacher. She is truly someone who has deep faith and really makes all of her students feel welcomed and cared about, no matter what day of the week it is. I hope she gets the future she wants, and I will support her all of the way. 

Image Courtesy of Ms. Vander-Baan.