Writer: Sophie
Editor: Niyanthri
Graphics: Tatiana
This school year, the ISM community experienced many challenges: the shift from distance learning, to hybrid classes, and now full face-to-face classes amidst the long ongoing pandemic. The adjustments have been a notable challenge for students and teachers alike, and as the grueling 2021 – 2022 school year comes to an end, there are a few teachers we couldn’t have endured this year without. Whether they have taught at ISM for 12 years or 5 years, their commitment to our school has been remarkable and deserves to be recognized. BT interviewed a handful of teachers leaving ISM this year, to highlight their experiences at ISM.
Ms. Hartley:
- How many years have you been at ISM?
12 years.
- What class(es) have you taught at ISM?
I was the Program leader for Art in Elementary school and taught grades 1 to grade 4. I moved to HS in 2014 and taught grades 10 – 12 film, including the IB film course. For the last three years I have also taught TOK.
- What are you going to miss most about your time in the Philippines and/or teaching at the school?
Wow, where to start! For the Philippines I will miss the people – The Filipino people are so warm and kind and cannot do enough to help, they are also so much fun! Also, THE TROPICAL OCEAN. At school, I will miss my amazing students – the students at ISM are uniquely brilliant – smart, caring and I have a lot of fun with them. Also my amazingly supportive, creative and caring colleagues and all the staff here at ISM that make working here joyful.
- What is your most memorable experience on campus?
Too many! Maybe my first BOB (Battle of the Bearcats) – SO much energy and spirit, it was breathtaking. Also, one of my favorite traditions at ISM is senior send off picnics in the HS courtyard. This year was so special, after not doing it for two years, and this year I got to celebrate it with all the students who I have seen grow up over the last twelve years at ISM with my daughter Eve. It was very, very special.
- Where are you moving to / what will you be doing next?
I LOVE my job and really don’t want to leave, but I miss my family. After three years of separation, it is time to be closer to them. I am moving to Sydney, Australia – I hope I will be able to teach film there but have to wait until I am there to get a work permit and a job. So I hope my Bearcat Family will keep their fingers crossed for me.
Mr. Cook:
- How many years have you been at ISM?
12 years.
- What class(es) have you taught at ISM?
9th English/Honors English, SL Literature, ToK.
- What are you going to miss most about your time in the Philippines and/or teaching at the school?
I’ll miss the Bearcat spirit most – how dedicated all the teachers are and how genuine, funny, and delightful all the students are.
- What is your most memorable experience on campus?
During my first year there was a Fear Factor game in the HS courtyard during Filipinana and I was “volunteered” as a newbie. I lost in the first round by failing to choke down crickets in coagulated blood! The texture and smell are emblazoned on my brain forever.
- Where are you moving to / what will you be doing next?
I’m moving home to Colorado and will be teaching the senior AP Research course at a school in Denver. I’m thrilled to have 4 seasons again and look forward to skiing, hiking, and camping in the Rocky Mountains :0)
Mr. Martin:
- How many years have you been at ISM?
5 years.
- What class(es) have you taught at ISM?
IB Business Management, Economics, and Global Politics.
- What are you going to miss most about your time in the Philippines and/or teaching at the school?
I will miss the friendliest people in the world (Philippines) and the most dedicated and resilient students I have ever worked with (ISM). Oh, and my daily coffee at the Bearcat Cafe!
- What is your most memorable experience on campus?
There are many to choose from, but I will always remember Super IASAS – amazing!!
- Where are you moving to / what will you be doing next?
We are moving to Chicago. I’m looking forward to spending 20 minutes putting on layers of clothes instead of layers of sunscreen.
Mr. Lassey:
- How many years have you been at ISM?
This is my 5th year at ISM.
- What class(es) have you taught at ISM?
I teach Peer Counseling and was a 9/10 Counselor for my first 2 years, and have been an 11/12 Counselor for the last 3 years.
- What are you going to miss most about your time in the Philippines and/or teaching at the school?
First and foremost, I am going to miss my students, especially my peer counselors and the peer counseling program as a whole. I will also miss my colleagues, the Filipino culture of kindness, and the incredible diving sites the Philippines has to offer.
- What is your most memorable experience on campus?
Honestly, the most memorable moments have been when students came to me for emotional support and I was there for them when they needed me the most.
- Where are you moving to / what will you be doing next?
I will be moving to Bangkok, Thailand to be a grade 9-12 Counselor and I’m really excited for my spouse, Amanda Long, who is currently a grade 3 teacher at ISM and will be transitioning into her new role as a grade 4-8 Counselor.
Ms. Grauke
- How many years have you been at ISM?
This is my 6th year at ISM. I taught for three years in elementary and then moved back to teaching high school for the past three years. I have also taught in Madrid, Dubai, and in the DC area in the US.
- What class(es) have you taught at ISM?
I’ve taught Preschool to IB Art and lots in between: Ceramics & Sculpture, Advanced Ceramics, Intro Art, IB Art Year 1 & 2.
- What are you going to miss most about your time in the Philippines and/or teaching at the school?
I will miss the warmth and kindness of the friends I have made here, the stunning beaches, getting away for a dive weekend, and fresh buko. From ISM I will miss the wonderful students: their passion, and their personalities. I will also miss my amazing art team!
- What is your most memorable experience on campus?
One of my most memorable experiences at ISM was giving back to the community through Red Paints and ICARE. It’s great to see students outside the classroom and trying new things. Another fond memory would be all the art shows at the school. It is so wonderful to see art pieces up on the wall looking finished and final.
- Where are you moving to / what will you be doing next?
After 13 years of living abroad, I am moving to South Carolina. I’ve never lived there, but my chosen family does. I am looking forward to being closer to them next year and making more of my own art.
Thank you so much to Ms. Hartley, Mr. Cook, Mr. Martin, Mr. Lassey, and Ms. Grauke for sharing your experiences at ISM, and every departing teacher for leaving a big mark on our school! BT wishes you the best of luck in your new chapter and hope your adventures ahead are just as bright.