Jeanette is a Teacher in Training at L’École Française du Maine, where she has become a versatile and highly trusted member of the educational team. Born in Portland and raised in nearby Topsham, she developed an interest in languages at an early age through her study of Latin. In high school, an initial desire to read French literature led her to discover a lasting appreciation for the French language and culture.
Jeanette earned a bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and French from the University of Southern Maine. Building upon this strong academic foundation, she is now pursuing continuing education in teaching methods, early childhood education, and elementary education to expand her formal teacher training and further develop her classroom practice.
Jeanette initially joined L’École Française du Maine as a member of the aftercare team. Her natural rapport with children, creativity, dependability, and strong organizational abilities were quickly recognized, and her role soon expanded to include assisting teachers in the classroom. During her several years at the school, she has worked with children across all age groups, from the school’s youngest preschool students through the elementary grades. This broad experience has given her a strong understanding of children’s differing developmental stages, learning needs, and classroom routines.
Jeanette is particularly skilled in classroom management and is able to establish a calm, orderly, and productive learning environment with students of all ages. She approaches each day with careful preparation, clear expectations, and a strong sense of purpose. Students understand what is expected of them and respond positively to her consistent, respectful manner. The genuine rapport and mutual respect she develops with children allow her to guide and encourage them while remaining attentive to their individual needs, helping students stay engaged, work productively, and take pride in their learning.
Her reliability and instructional skill make Jeanette a highly valued substitute throughout the school. Teachers trust her to step into their classrooms, follow established plans, maintain continuity, and ensure that meaningful learning continues in their absence. Whether supporting a classroom teacher or assuming responsibility for the day’s instruction, she is thorough, focused, and committed to completing the planned lessons and helping students achieve the intended learning goals.
In her role as a Teacher in Training, Jeanette works alongside experienced educators while continuing to strengthen her skills in lesson preparation, curriculum implementation, classroom instruction, and student support. Her background in linguistics and French is especially valuable within the school’s bilingual environment, and she enjoys helping children develop their language and communication skills.
Jeanette is also a gifted artist whose creativity enriches her work with students. She enjoys introducing children to imaginative, hands-on projects and encouraging them to express their ideas through art and creative exploration. Her combination of creativity, organization, consistency, and genuine care for children allows her to bring both warmth and structure to every classroom in which she works.
Outside school, Jeanette enjoys designing and crocheting amigurumi—especially dragons and horses—as well as horseback riding, baking, cooking, reading, and exploring a wide variety of artistic projects.