Here is Jenna’s kind words, honouring Jackie’s work for our Feature the Teacher series!
Describe what you have appreciated about your child’s teacher this year?
As a result of Jackie’s enthusiasm, encouragement and kindness, Juliette has flourished, becoming more confident, independent and a better communicator. Jackie has celebrated Juliette’s achievements with gusto, providing engaging and valuable learning opportunities alongside her peers, and has created a beautiful, warm, welcoming and inclusive classroom, where Juliette feels valued.
Her peers are caring, respectful and helpful, and this can be attributed to Jackie’s approach to teaching.
What has it meant to you and your child to have your child included at school?
Attending various events at school and witnessing how the students and teachers embrace and encourage Juliette has been heart-warming. We are so grateful to the principal and teachers for believing in her worth and setting challenging, flexible, yet achievable goals.
To see her attending the same school alongside her big brother and, next year, her little sister, is truly special for her and us, and we appreciate the time that goes into making this happen.
Have there been any memorable moments from this year at school that you wish to share?
Recently, Juliette celebrated her birthday (the countdown to it started at the beginning of the year – just ask Jackie!), and her delight at having her teacher and classmates ‘ surprise’ her when she arrived to class, before breaking out into happy birthday song, was so lovely. She received handmade cards and notes, gifts, hugs, parents wishing her a happy birthday from their cars, and was so excited to share her cupcakes.
Later, she told me it was the“best birthday ever!”. It really was a day of pure joy and, as parents, it was a beautiful example of how included and loved she feels, and how much she is a part of the school community.
What is one thing you hope that will continue for your child with Down syndrome in their schooling life?
Earlier in the year, Jackie ran the entire cross-country with Juliette and, during the event, Juliette told her that “I am the winner”, despite not placing.
This feeling of success, understanding that giving her best is enough, is something we want to foster, and we hope that her teachers continue to celebrate her achievements and nurture her self-esteem.
Is there anything else you wish to commend or say to your child’s teacher?
The relationship Jackie has with Juliette is very special. ‘Shillig’ (Juliette’s still working on the‘Mrs’ part) features heavily in Juliette’s home conversations and life in general, and we know this is because of the time that Jackie has invested in building trust and rapport with Juliette.
From the modified homework and differentiated classroom activities, to the humour, encouragement, ‘Student of the Day’ certificates and emails acknowledging her hard work, we are so grateful that Juliette has been blessed with such a thoughtful, kind, generous and dedicated teacher.
Thank you, Mrs Shillig, for all you’ve done for ‘our girl’.