By SHEA GANG
With roots here on Long Island, newly hired Ms. Rebecca Newman hasn’t strayed far from home since joining the Jericho High School community as a French teacher.
After majoring in French with a minor in Spanish and Communications, Ms. Newman obtained her master’s degree at Hofstra University, making her certified to teach French and ENL. After finishing graduate school and student teaching, Ms. Newman became a leave replacement at Syosset High School before joining the Jericho community.
Coming from a family of teachers, Ms. Newman already had plenty of exposure to educators. Growing up, Ms. Newman remembers going to her aunt’s classroom and seeing her aunt make everything fun for the students. In addition to her family of educators, Ms. Newman always loved the French language and working with children.
Before teaching at Jericho, Ms. Newman was already familiar with the area. She said, “I grew up around here, and I’m very local. Jericho has a really good reputation. It’s a very impressive school district, and I think everyone knows that.”
So far, Jericho has been a fun adventure for Ms. Newman, as she is still learning, growing, and finding ways to improve as an educator.
World Languages curriculum associate Dr. Lionel Chan strongly believes in the impact Ms. Newman will have on the Jericho community. Dr. Chan said, “She’s excited about teaching the French language and culture, and inspiring that same interest in her students.”
Ms. Newman felt very nervous coming to a new school, but she soon realized that there was nothing to fear. Since the start of the school year, the Jericho community has welcomed Ms. Newman with open arms and has begun to make her feel like a part of the school district. “Everyone so far, kids and staff, have been so willing to help and are so friendly,” Ms. Newman said.
Sophomore Shubhan M. receives individualized instruction about pronunciation. Ms. Newman is always trying to help her students better understand the language.
Although Ms. Newman mostly teaches in the middle school, her high school students are thrilled to have her as their French teacher this year. Sophomore Jocelyn S. said, “Ms. Newman is vibrant and fun. I like how she allows us to express how we feel while teaching us everything we need to know at the same time.”
Similarly, Sophomore Rebecca P. expressed how happy she is to have Ms. Newman here in Jericho. Rebecca said, “She is a very engaging teacher and tries her hardest to make sure we are prepared for tests while also having fun.”
Ms. Newman’s passion for languages and teaching will greatly benefit her students as she continues her instruction in the Jericho School District.