At Rowntree, our teachers make us who we are. They’re dedicated, passionate educators who prioritize the wellbeing of every one of our students. They make our classrooms come alive and learning fun, engaging every child that walks through our front door.
With such inspiring teachers like these, Rowntree students develop a lifelong love for learning—one fueled by curiosity and a thirst for knowledge.
Get to know Mrs. Ashu Rehan, a Grade 1 teacher with 28 years of experience. Through this interview, you’ll learn about Mrs. Rehan’s classroom management and how she inspires young minds to become the leaders of tomorrow.
Q: What does a typical day in your classroom look like?
A: A typical day is busy, filled with learning, and happy children enjoying themselves.
I start by welcoming my students into my class with a smile and a bright “Good morning!” Upon arrival, students are encouraged to socialize and play with their friends to develop their social skills.
I then go over my daily schedule according to my presentation slides to let my students know what we are doing for that day, as we have different subject teachers come into our class for their subject. I find that telling my students about their day helps them stay organized with their learning.
[Finally], I teach moral values because I believe my role extends beyond academics—I am also helping raise these children.
Q: How do you incorporate social-emotional development into the academic setting?
A: I take time to teach my students kindness, responsibility, respect, honesty, and care for the environment. When students are strong in their social-emotional skills, their academics become easy for them to grasp. I have noticed that when students are happy with their peers and their surroundings, they demonstrate a love for learning.
Q: How do you incorporate new technology and learning styles into the classroom?
A: I use technology when I need to such as, I use the smart board for teaching in class, searching for any material for students, showing pictures, charts, and videos, using songs, read-aloud, and storytelling, interactive lessons. By mixing technology with traditional teaching, my students stay engaged, learn better, and have fun in class. The key is balance—using the right tools at the right time!
Q: How do you keep parents involved in their child’s academic journey?
A: Within the first two weeks of schools being open, I start connecting with parents via email or phone calls. I call [students’] parents [who could benefit from a little extra help] and ask if they could start coming in earlier so I could give them extra time and support [with the help of] my learning leader.
If some students are doing great with their academics, I write notes on their bookwork and write for parents to sign. Once parents have signed, they are aware of their child’s academic journey.
From the first day of school, I tell my students that we are a family, and in this family, we never leave anyone behind. Whenever we have a problem, either in the playground or in class, we all sit together on the mat. Once seated, we all talk about what the problem was and how we were going to solve it. We do not blame anyone.
This applies not only to problems but also to good deeds. If a student or the entire class does something positive, we discuss it together.
I tell them I am very happy and let them know that they are making this world a better place because they are making good choices and doing good deeds. I have noticed that with positive encouragement, all students strive to improve every day.
We’re incredibly fortunate to have Mrs. Rehan as part of our community. Her dedication to educating the whole student—nurturing their academic, social, and emotional growth—helps shape our students into compassionate leaders, lifelong learners, and engaged citizens.
Thank you, Mrs. Rehan, for your unwavering commitment and the impact you make every day!