Congratulations to Magdalena Kisielewska-Zaranek – a student in the Faculty’s Bachelor of Education degree program at York University’s Glendon Campus – on being awarded the Ontario Modern Language Teachers’ Association (OMLTA) Helen G. Mitchell Award.
One graduating student from each Faculty of Education who will be qualified to teach French as a Second Language (FSL) or an International Language is awarded with the Helen G. Mitchell Award, in recognition of their dedication to, interest in, and passion for second language teaching.
Kisielewska-Zaranek recently completed the final year of the consecutive Bachelor of Education, French as a Second Language program in the Junior and Intermediate division. She holds a Honours Bachelor of Arts and Masters degree both in French Studies from York University.
In past years she has been working as a language instructor for the International Language and French Conversation Programs at the York Catholic District School Board, and as a tutor for French immersion students. She is currently providing her students with opportunities to continue learning French through distance learning.
“I am very honoured that the Faculty chose me to receive the Helen G. Mitchell Award,” says Kisielewska-Zaranek. “My dedication to studies and to my students wouldn't be possible without the support from my family. I am passionate about languages, in particular French, and I look forward to continuing to share this passion with my students, with the hope that they will become lifelong language learners.”
Cécile Robertson, Course Director at York University’s Faculty of Education says, “Magdalena is a conscientious student who works diligently to create creative, engaging and stimulating activities for her students. I had the pleasure of working with her and seeing her in the classroom context during practicum - at all times, she is respectful, kind and attentive towards student needs. She will be such an asset to the teaching community and in particular in the FSL context where her passion for French teaching and learning will inspire and motivate all who come in contact with her.”