How does the APH teaching philosophy look in your classroom?
I believe that language learning is an unparalleled experience. By studying a new language, students strengthen their ability to communicate and solve problems while increasing their empathy towards and understanding of others. Because language learning and acquisition encompass such a wide range of skills, teaching a world language requires the ability to be flexible and accommodating. If students are not engaged in the subject, they will not have the motivation to put forth the effort needed to get the most out of the learning experience. Through my choices in material, input, and activities, I aim to create a spark in my students that encourages them to continue to learn as much as they can about the French and Francophone language, literature, and culture. My classroom is very student-centric, allowing the students to drive the trajectory of their learning based on their own interests and goals.
What excites you about The Academy at Penguin Hall?
What excites me about The Academy at Penguin Hall is the ability to make the connections necessary to encourage the acquisition of the French language. The small class sizes and culture of kindness found at APH create a perfect environment for students to feel comfortable enough to commit to their learning.
Share something interesting about yourself.
I am an avid indoor and outdoor cyclist. I attend several rhythm-based indoor cycling classes a week and have a stationary bike at home. I love getting lost in the music and riding to the beat. It’s like dancing on a bike! A few of my favorite traditional cycling trails are the Cape Cod Rail Trail, the East Bay Bike Path in Rhode Island, and Fort De Soto Park near my hometown of St. Petersburg, Florida.
Hayley has a B.A. in French and Economics from Boston College and an M.A. in French from the University of South Florida. She expects to receive a master’s in French Studies from Brown University in October 2021.