LCS Dean of Academics Abbigaëlle S. (LCS ‘18)

When I walked through the school doors in September 2011, I was young, eager for knowledge, and uncertain about the future. At LCS, I forged unbreakable friendships and created lasting memories, engraved in the very depths of my being. The educators and staff of this institution have been my guides; their dedication and passion for the art of teaching made those seven years a memorable experience. Along the way, I acquired profound knowledge of a multitude of disciplines, but my learning was not limited to the confines of these academic walls. I have drawn invaluable lessons from my peers and personal experiences.

My years at LCS were also marked by active involvement in various extracurricular activities, clubs, and community projects. I discovered deep passions and developed my innate talents in the theatrical spotlight and behind the scenes organizing memorable events. These experiences taught me the importance of team spirit, leadership, and commitment to my community. Thanks to this institution, I'm armed with the skills and knowledge I've acquired and the memories I'll cherish forever, forging my own destiny.

Early in life, I embraced a passion for education and the development of individuals. After graduation, I studied legal sciences at École des Droits et Économiques des Gonaïves and later was awarded a scholarship from the LCS Dulcich Center for Career Advancement to study education sciences at Université Quisqueya while serving as junior staff [in the Junior Staff work study program for alumni] at LCS.

The same institution that taught me to be the person I am now also allowed me to start working in my dream profession. In September 2022, I started working as the LCS Assistant Dean of Academics. My first responsibility was to participate in ensuring student academic success in collaboration with the Dean of Academics, and also to participate in the management of trimester exams, prepare files for the Ministry of Education, and participate in the registration operations for official examinations and admissions exams.

One of the first lessons I learned in this position was the importance of active listening. I realized that each student has a unique story, specific challenges, and different needs. I really enjoyed witnessing the incredible moments of success of my students. This year was a joy and a challenge for me. I wanted to reduce academic failure and struggling, especially in the newest classes. Every evening, I was in Study Hour to motivate them and give them study and learning methods. I also paired the Sizyèm (7th grade) students with tutors from a higher class to accompany them in their work. My constant goal is to create an environment where students can develop their academic and personal skills in a holistic way, to continue to explore new pedagogical methods in order to help learners who are in difficulty, to remain open to changes in the field of education, and to inspire my students more to become autonomous and passionate learners. Seeing them overcome their learning difficulties and make significant progress reminded me of the positive impact of education on lives. Every small step forward of my learners, especially those in Sizyèm who are new to the LCS educational system, is a victory to celebrate.

     I am proud to say that at the start of school this year, I became the LCS Dean of Academics. As an educator, I would like to deepen my study in educational sciences by earning my master’s degree and then a doctorate. I would also like to study psychology in order to combine the fields and be an educational psychologist. I look forward to acquiring all the necessary knowledge and accomplishing my wishes in future years.