Dual Credit Support Teachers Share Their Experiences
Posted on Wednesday, July 5th, 2017
Dianne Langlois
While working as a high school teacher and the head of student services, Dianne Langlois was approached by the school board to come work as a Dual Credit support teacher at Algonquin College. At first, not knowing much about the program, Langlois actually turned down the position. She says that she has always liked working with students at risk and she is now a very dedicated support teacher and pathway builder for the Dual Credit program.
What do you like the most about being a support teacher?
“Mostly, I like encouraging the students to achieve. I like to help them realize that they have potential. And that people do care. It’s important to help them celebrate their little successes. I come here early in the morning before their classes to greet them and make them feel comfortable.”
What do you think is the biggest challenge you face as a Dual Credit support teacher?
“The non-attending students. We often have students who are doing really well, and then there is a crisis at home and we can’t get them back. If they are here, there is always a solution, but the hardest part is getting them to come back and attend again.”
What is the most inspiring story about a student you’ve witnessed as a Dual Credit support teacher?
“To me, it’s the students who are living on their own. They are on their own, paying their own rent, food. They’ve often come from very difficult situations and they are determined to get out of it.”
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