Dale — a source of inspiration to all

STRUGGLING to ensure that students have a variety of offerings from her teaching curriculum, Art and Craft teacher at the Five Rivers Junior Secondary School (FRJSS) Dale Maharaj, believes that the facilitation of an all-round curriculum is essential to the development of well rounded individuals in our schools. A teacher, leader and source of inspiration to all, Maharaj revealed that she began teaching approximately 31 years ago, from the time she left high school. Stating that she first taught at a private secondary school for two years, she subsequently opted to join the Public Service system in January 1976.

Questioned as to what first attracted her to teaching in the first place, she replied, “Those factors have evolved over the years.” Having attended Holy Name Convent for seven years, Maharaj entered the Mausica Teachers’ College in 1978, and earned her Teachers’ Diploma in Elective Art from the Valsayn Teachers’ College in 1980. “When I began as a young untrained teacher, I was primarily concerned with imparting knowledge, as there was this vast amount of knowledge out there and I just wanted to share it with the pupils.” However, as time went on and Maharaj’s training and experience grew, along with a “great deal of introspection,” she realised what a great responsibility she had taken on. Admittedly, she began taking more interest in the growth and development of the young people with whom she interacted with on a daily basis. “As each generation moves on and a new generation comes into the school, I feel this sense of renewed hope, which sustains me and keeps the attraction to teaching alive,” she said. “I just like what I do, and I love the children,” Dale simply said. “I enjoy teaching.”

Head of the Visual Arts Department at FRJSS, the mother of three conceded that the position did come with a variety of different functions she is required to perform. In addition to this, Dale is also a member of the Leadership Team for the Planning Committee responsible for improving literacy across the school; a project which is being done in conjunction with the British Council. As if this is not enough to keep her occupied, Dale is also on the Editorial committee of her school’s newsletter, Rivers News. Proudly revealing that this was a relatively new project that they “were trying to institutionalise,” the fact that the third issue will be out shortly indicates that the idea has been accepted and is growing. Seeking to broaden her students’ minds and to make classes more fun, Maharaj introduced them to drama, when she encouraged them to perform the Nativity play at the school’s annual Christmas concert.

In terms of her personal and professional development, Maharaj is no slouch and has proven the old adage that “You are never too old to learn.” Currently pursuing studies at the School of Education at the University of the West Indies, Dale is intent on attaining her Diploma in Education in the Visual and Performing Arts. Part of this course is Caribbean Dance, an aspect which is proving to be of much entertainment and enjoyment for Maharaj. How significant is art and craft in the all-round development of students, you ask? Well, if one examined the educational philosophy in TT which states that every child has the ability to learn, therefore, “we must build on this positive assumption.” “Art and craft can bring out the true creative quality in the child,” claimed Maharaj, as they are taught “not only coordination skills, but we teach them to appreciate the aesthetics, what is pleasing to the eye.” In conclusion and asked if she could impart some advice to her colleagues, Dale promptly challenged them to “engage in reflective practice, especially if they feel they are beginning to lose hope.” She implored them, “Accept a challenge to explore teaching in different ways, using different techniques and to also refresh their spirit by keeping a journal.” Lastly, but not least, “Respect and love the children, as well as give them the best you have.”