When I was nominated for the National Teaching Awards (NTA) in the category Excellence in Grade R Teaching in 2009, it was quite a shock, but soon I realised that it was the most wonderful compliment the school and my principal could ever give me.
As I put my portfolio together, I realised just how much I had done. I feel justly proud of what I have achieved. I may not have been a winner on the night, but the experience of putting the portfolio together lifted my spirits and I feel so motivated and enthusiastic about continuing on this path I have chosen.
The interviews were nerve-racking and I really did not enjoy that part. After the interview, I felt awful — it felt as if I had not said enough and that I had let myself down.
Putting together, for the first time, all the instructions and posters, files and information seemed like a full-time job.
But, once again, it gave me such an overwhelming sense of satisfaction to know I had come so far and that I had become an asset not only to my school and principal but to the district as well.
The friendliness of all the people I met in Bloemfontein during the early stages of the competition was very inspiring. It helped me to look forward to the finals in Pretoria. Two colleagues at my school went far in the competition and talking to them motivated me even more.
I was looking forward to the event. I remember thinking to myself how I would love to meet the minister of basic education (Angie Motshekga) or even the state president (Jacob Zuma). What a privilege that would be.
I think two things influenced my nomination: firstly the passion I have for the little ones in my care. I always believe taking care of such fragile minds is a crucial responsibility. It puts me in a unique position — to direct, guide, love and, perhaps more importantly, mould them into becoming responsible adults.
Secondly, I started a vegetable garden where I grow spinach, beetroot and carrots so that children can learn about different kinds of vegetables and appreciate the importance of nature. I sell a portion of the vegetables and use the proceeds to attend to some of the school’s needs such as teaching aids (puppets) and paving the parking lot.
And, on October 29 last year, my dream came true — I met Motshekga and also shook the hand of Zuma. Although I ended up as a finalist on the night, I feel I am a winner and one of the best educators in the world. And for all this I am indebted to God and the adjudicating panel for believing in me.
I also would like to thank my colleagues and all those who supported and believed in me. I thank them for their guidance, love and all the help but, most of all, for the smiles and the confidence in me. My participation in the NTA has motivated me so much that I am going to enrol for my honours degree in 2011.
Shirley Rossouw is a teacher at the Welkom Preparatory School in Lejweleputswa District in the Free State. She was a finalist in the category of Excellence in Grade R Teaching in the 2009 National Teaching Awards