Faculty Feature: Dr. Jacqueline Swaidan, middle school Humanities teacher
Our feature this Friday is Dr. Jacqueline Swaidan, middle school Humanities teacher.
Dr. Jacqueline Swaidan moved to Rabun Gap this year from California to join the Middle School faculty as a Humanities teacher. She has been a great addition to the Middle School team and is well loved by both the other faculty and students alike. Her excitement and joy about life and passion for her students are evident from the moment you meet her. Dr. Swaidan holds a B.A. in History from the University of Southern California and an M.A. and Ph.D. in History from Claremont Graduate University. In addition to her teaching duties, she serves as the assistant coach for the Middle School tennis team and lives in the Irene dormitory as a dorm parent.
What made you choose to work at Rabun Gap?
I chose to work at Rabun Gap because I loved the idea of working with students from all over the world, with diverse life experiences, in a day and boarding environment. The warmth and friendliness of the RGNS community really impressed me, as did the commitment to a combined humanities program.
Why did you decide to become a teacher?
I chose to be a teacher because I wanted to spend my days working with children. Their energy is infectious, and their sense of humor is hilarious. You never know what will happen next. Serious learning can happen even when you’re having fun. I don’t mind if my classes get a little loud sometimes - it means they’re excited about what we’re doing.
What is your teaching philosophy?
My middle school students have ideas that are just as complex and important as those of high schoolers, college students, even graduate students, and professional scholars. It’s just not always apparent, because middle schoolers are still learning to express their ideas formally, clearly and confidently; that’s where I can help them in the humanities classroom.
What were you like in high school?
I was pretty similar to the person I am now, except that I was less confident then.
How many years of experience do you have as a teacher?
I’ve been working as a teacher part-time for 6 years.
What inspires you?
My students inspire me because they are so open to trying new things, and so enthusiastic about all the things they do. They help me appreciate the magic in everyday life.
What interests do you pursue outside of the classroom?
I’ll never pass up a chance to travel the world, or get outdoors or on the water. Otherwise, I’m reading, sewing, or knitting.
What are you known for?
I’m known for being really loud and silly.
What makes Rabun Gap special?
Rabun Gap is special because It’s a big family. People look out for each other here, and they are genuinely happy to see each other each day. There is a very strong sense of community and kindness.
What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from your resume alone?
My resume looks serious, but my students say I’m “actually really chill.”
Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School
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Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is a private, coeducational day and boarding school for grades Pre-K through 12. Centrally located between Atlanta, GA, Greenville, SC, and Asheville, NC, we prepare young people for college, career, and a lifetime of leadership and service.
