Daphne O’Sullivan A Truly Classic Teacher [cont.]

Joking aside, here is my teaching philosophy: I am most grateful for:

I love children. They make me smile, often laugh out loud, and they fill me with wonder. I honestly believe there is no limit to what they can achieve - in any area of endeavour, academically or otherwise - as long as they are loved, encouraged, inspired and led to believe in their own potential. They are like sponges, soaking up knowledge and always thirsty for learning. They are also like mirrors in that your mood and the atmosphere you create in the classroom will be reflected right back at you. Be passionate about your subject, and they will be too.

• A school that has provided me with an awesome, totally fulfilling career for over 12 years

• The opportunity to teach a host of the most wonderful children imaginable over the years.

• The best group of teachers anyone could ever wish for. They are all like family. Especially my beloved Grade 5 group of colleagues: Kelly, Scott and Amber (and Taylor and Laura, way back when). We have shared such adventures and so many laughs together. I will miss them dearly.

Daphne is such an integral part of Aberdeen Hall. Her easy-going personality makes it easy for both adults and children alike to connect with her. Her iconic photos of flying through the air over hurdles will be missed, as will her wit, famous grammatical corrections and our pre-Covid morning coffee chats in the Loft Cafe, one of the few people who was at school as early as I was! She has been a wonderful colleague and friend."

When I started at Aberdeen Hall, Daphne was such a welcoming and encouraging mentor to me. She helped me to find my way as a teacher and was always around to help with a grammatical question, or to listen to a funny teaching story. Over the years she has become a cherished friend and I will truly miss her as she returns to her beautiful home in Naramata.

Aberdeen is so lucky to have had such a passionate and knowledgeable teacher; the Grade 5 team will be sure to carry on her love for Greek Mythology and commas!

Ms. Kelly Browning

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Daphne as a friend, teacher and colleague. She is an incredible human who I look up to and strive to be like. Daphne’s passion for her teaching is infectious and I don’t know if anyone will be able to follow in her shoes in bringing Greek Mythology to life and creating an impactful and meaningful assembly for Remembrance Day. We have been so lucky to have Daphne with us and she will be greatly missed.

Mrs. Kelsey Chase