ISN Nice's 'spotlight series' highlights the work of our teachers and staff.

This week, read our interview with Melanie Laroche, a Science, Maths and IBDP Biology teacher and also the Eco School and Sustainability Coordinator, to find out how she spreads environmental awareness through her teaching.

 

Please could you introduce yourself and your role at ISN

My name is Melanie Laroche. I am French, I am married and I have one daughter, Julie, who is in Grade 6.  

This is my first year at ISN and currently, I teach Science, Maths and IBDP Biology and I am the Eco School and Sustainability Coordinator. 

 

Could you tell us a little about your background?

I grew up in Reunion Island and then in France to get the French Baccalaureate, “baccalaureat Scientifique”. As I wanted to travel, I decided to continue my studies in the US in Charleston to get a Bachelor in Science and finally, in Boston to obtain a Master in Education. 

I’ve worked in different international schools in Monaco, Italy, the Bahamas and France. I have had different roles: Science teacher, Maths and Science Coordinator, IBDP Coordinator for 5 years and even Head of Secondary for 3 years in my previous school.  

 

How would you define your approach to teaching and learning?

I consider myself more of a facilitator than a teacher. I am there to help students enjoy science and maths and to succeed in their exams. My first step before starting a new unit of learning is to listen to my students and their needs, and then put together the programme. I use different types of assessments to cover all different learning skills, and I teach my students how to be curious, creative and independent in their learning.

 

If we stepped into your classroom, what would we see?

If you come into my classroom, you will probably see students working on Project Based Learning, as I feel it is the best way of learning. Students need to dive into a concept to have a better understanding. You will see collaborative work with students doing an experiment, making a 3D model of a cell, playing a science or a maths game, or even students outside the classroom creating a science video. My classroom is not a quiet classroom but a learning environment where we have fun and learn at the same time. 

 

How would you define the community at ISN Nice?

I am a teacher and a parent at ISN and without a doubt, I can say it is a caring and warm environment. We always see smiling faces (even with a mask). As a new member of this community, I would like to thank all the teachers for their support and help and for such a great integration process.

 

What is your proudest achievement?

I would say probably my Masters for different reasons. First, because I was working and studying for my Masters at the same time. I did not want my parents to pay for my studies, as my Mum was ill. When I got my Master's degree, my parents were present for my graduation. I was very proud of myself, but the most important was to see the pride in my mother's eyes. She made the trip to Boston for me, and she passed away one month later.

 

In your field of teaching, what important messages are you sharing with this next generation of students?

As the sustainability coordinator and a science teacher, it is important to realise that we only have one planet, and that small actions from each of us can help the environment. This is my goal - to ensure that each person in this school changes their routine a little, and that we all have more awareness about sustainability and the environment.