Profile of an educator

Most international schools define their success through a “profile of a graduate”. Parents naturally look towards outcomes, often focusing on the universities students attend after completing their IB diploma. However, some schools take this a step further by building a “profile of a teacher” – an individual who embodies the school’s core values, brand and spirit. Whether it is a long-serving staff member or a community favourite, this person serves as a living exemplar, providing a tangible ‘shorthand’ for what it means to live out the school mission.

Recently, while reviewing a copy for the school’s Fort magazine, I encountered an article by a colleague that resonated with me deeply. This is an educator who has remained dedicated to the classroom throughout her entire career. A true lifelong learner, she not only teaches students but also trains fellow educators, bringing a rare energy and joy to her work every day. She perfectly captures the profile of an educator who encapsulates our school spirit.

Let me introduce you to Ms Angeletti. She is a teacher who prioritises life skills, constantly reflecting on why her subject – theatre – remains vital for her students. She is not afraid to ask the big philosophical questions of what it is to be a human being and discussing how we live our lives. She asks the question: “What is the one story we want to tell and how does it translate into the language of theatre?”

As she puts it: “Theatre is the language of connection. In a theatre classroom, students learn how to collaborate with others. They learn how to negotiate, when to step forward with their ideas in group work, and when to step back and listen.

“They learn how to draw on their interior world as well as the world around them, to articulate ideas and shape them for an audience. They learn how to hold an audience’s attention and with clear intent communicate meaning. They are invited to experience the possible lives of others through stepping into different character roles and exploring different life scenarios in different cultures, in different eras, taking a script from page to stage.

In a theatre classroom, students learn how to collaborate… how to negotiate, when to step forward with their ideas… and when to step back and listen- Ms Angeletti, our theatre teacher

“In a time when arts education is not always the priority over the traditional subjects like maths and science, and often put on the back burner in terms of budgets, it is widely recognised that young people benefit hugely from participating in arts subjects in terms of their confidence, leadership skills and working collaboratively as part of a team, and of course developing creativity.”

It was the eloquence of my colleague’s explanation that blew me away.

“So why study theatre in schools? It is an exercise in human understanding, understanding the self and how to relate to others, not through reading and writing but through actual doing and experiencing, embodying. It is a rehearsal for life in which there is the opportunity to step into the world as a creator and changemaker.

“And the key to it being essential is that theatre is an art form that comes to life through the almost magical interaction between the actor/storyteller and the audience. It is live and alive; it is ephemeral and yet leaves its mark in the imagination of the participants. It sparks change and an energetic exchange in a way that machines cannot.”

And then to add the articulate reflection of one of her students:

“Not only does theatre allow one to express themselves but it also holds a mirror up to our society. Theatre takes me to a different world, a different dimension where I can take control of my life, where I can become a different person just for a few hours and feel ‘free’.”

Ms Angeletti is a global educator who has organised numerous student trips to foster international connections. As a staunch advocate for her students, she is generous with her time, working tirelessly to truly understand and represent them. This dedication has earned her the deep respect of students, parents and peers alike.

Beyond her professional skill, she is a genuinely kind person who always takes a moment to check in with those around her.

I must admit, I am a little envious. As a school leader, I miss the daily rhythm of the classroom; as a former English teacher, I miss the direct connection to the arts and the opportunity to expose students to the great works of humanity.

There are many wonderful teachers at Verdala International School, but if I were to profile the exemplary international educator, Ms Angeletti would be at the top of my list.

Davina McCarthy is head of Verdala International School.