My Journey in Education
From Kindergarten Teacher to Kagan Trainer and Franchise Director
As I reflect on my journey in education, I am filled with gratitude for the path that led me from a kindergarten teacher to a passionate advocate for cooperative learning.
Each step along the way has shaped me, challenged me, and fueled my desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students.
The Early Years: Kindergarten Teacher and a Growing Passion
My journey began in the colorful world of kindergarten. I loved the creativity and still felt like I could bring more creativeness into lessons for older children. So I studied to be an elementary teacher as well.
I reveled in creating engaging lessons, sampled lots of engaging structures during Comenius projects, and worked together with a co-teacher in one classroom. And still, as time passed, I felt a growing need to do more—to reach beyond the traditional classroom and make a difference for all students.
A Shift in Focus: Special Needs and Differentiation
It was during those years that I encountered students with special needs. Their unique challenges touched my heart, and I realized that my teaching approach needed to evolve. I attended courses and workshops, and sought out mentors who could guide me. Differentiation and growth mindset became my mantra—I wanted every child to thrive, regardless of their abilities or learning styles.
The Inclusive Puzzle: Seeking Answers
Inclusion was a word that came more and more needed in Belgian education. How to manage all different kinds of challenges fascinated me. I wanted to learn more about each special challenge like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc. I enrolled in specialized courses and immersed myself in the world of inclusive education. Yet, despite my efforts, I felt like a piece of the puzzle was missing.
The Turning Point: Cooperative Learning and Dr. Spencer Kagan
Then, like a beacon of light, I discovered Kagan Cooperative Learning, initially through a docent who used a method in Belgium that uses cooperative learning in language (CLIM). That’s how I found Art de Co with their unique franchise.
Dr. Spencer Kagan’s groundbreaking work resonated with me. His research-backed methods promised engagement, collaboration, and improved learning outcomes. I attended all the workshops possible in Belgium and gave lessons with Kagan Cooperative Learning Structures in my classroom. I even made my post-bachelor study on this subject. Suddenly the missing piece fell into place.
The Scholarship: Fueling My Passion
When I received the scholarship to attend Dr. Kagan’s intensive course, my excitement knew no bounds. The week-long immersion was transformative. Back then, it was the Level II course Multiple Intelligences. I learned about structures like “Sequencing,” “Line-Ups,” and “Same-Different.” I witnessed firsthand how cooperative learning empowered students, boosted their confidence, and fostered a sense of community. I was (Captain) hooked. Smile because the Kagan Summer Academy was held at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista at the Walt Disney World® Resort. I was so hooked, I even attended a while longer to take the Brain-Friendly Teaching workshop.
From Teacher to Trainer: Empowering Others
Back in Belgium, armed with newfound knowledge, I delved deeply and got the ambition to become a Kagan Trainer. As a trainer, I crisscrossed the country, conducting workshops for educators. The joy of seeing teachers embrace Kagan Cooperative Learning was unparalleled. We transformed classrooms into vibrant hubs of collaboration where students learned from each other, celebrated diversity, and thrived academically.
The Franchise Director: A Dream Realized
But my journey didn’t stop there. The Kagan philosophy had become my life’s purpose. When the opportunity arose to lead the Kagan Belgium franchise, I seized it.
Planting Seeds: Growth and Fulfillment
Today I continue to plant seeds of Kagan Cooperative Learning. As a trainer, and as the director of Kagan Belgium, I collaborate with administrators and fellow educators. Together we sow the seeds of engagement, empathy, and academic excellence. The impact ripples through generations of students, igniting their passion for learning and preparing them for a dynamic world.
In this journey—from kindergarten teacher to Kagan Certified Trainer to franchise director—I’ve found fulfillment. I’ve witnessed the transformational power of cooperative learning, and I’m committed to nurturing it. As I look ahead, I see endless possibilities—a tapestry of interconnected lives woven together by the threads of education.
So, here’s to the journey—the winding path that led me to where I am today. May it inspire others to embrace change, seek answers, and create a brighter future for our students.
Together we stand in training for growth in our future.