Meet the Team: Erin McCall, Grade 4 Teacher

1. What made you want to be part of the GNS community?  Moving away from my family in New York to Victoria was a huge change for me. My husband is from Victoria and attended GNS. I always heard how wonderful GNS was from him and that the community was so welcoming. Everyone I work with is extremely kind, caring and looks out for the interests of each other and the GNS families. 2. How did you choose teaching as the right career path?  I knew that I wanted to teach ever since I was a young girl. I’m not too sure where it came from but I can remember playing “school” with my dolls at a young age—so maybe it was just in me! I went to university and received my Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education with a concentration in English and then continued to receive my Masters in Education with a concentration in Literacy. 3. What is the best thing about your day and why?  Honestly, everything! I love seeing the kids come into class in the morning with smiles on their faces, ready to learn. I love their inquisitive nature and love of learning. I love to be able to teach them something new each and every day. Also, the staff. I work with such an amazing group of intelligent, knowledgeable, nurturing and kind teachers that it makes coming to the Junior School everyday easy. 4. What are some of your interests outside of school?  I love spending time with my family (husband and three boys: ages 9, 6 and 2.5) and friends—when we can—going on bike rides, exploring the outdoors, fishing, traveling—again when we can—and family walks. I also love to ride the Peloton! 5. What is something most people don’t know about you?  I met my husband at university where I was there on a Track and Academic scholarship and he was also there on a Hockey and Academic scholarship.  6. What do you like about living/working in Victoria? Can I say everything again?! Yes, I miss my family and friends back in New York, but Victoria is such an amazing place to live and raise a family. I am very lucky to have my husband’s family here so we still get a lot of family time. Being so close to the ocean and the beautiful trails, you really can’t beat it. 7. What do you like about teaching Grade 4?  I love this age! I previously taught Grades 1 and 2 in New York and at that time I loved those grades too. However, now teaching Grade 4 for the past four years I feel that this age is the best. The students are at an age where they are more independent and love to learn. I can have wonderful conversations with them too! Also, another thing that I love about teaching Grade 4 is my teaching partner, Ms. Seliwoniuk. She is so amazing to work with and not only is she my teaching partner but a wonderful friend outside of school too!