Education Majors In San Francisco Must Be Passionate About Teaching
San Francisco students thinking of becoming an educator may not necessarily follow the fascinating career path of Debbie de Coudreaux, but there's a good chance they'll be inspired by learning of her past achievements and her return to teach at the high school that started it all. After staring at the Moulin Rouge in Paris for eight years, singing principal roles on Broadway, and touring with an award-winning one woman show, what does one do for an encore? She returned to Holy Names High School and became a music and drama teacher.
What is your background and education?
"I received my B.A. in Political Science from UCLA and my M.F.A. in Creative Inquiry, Study of Performing Arts from California Institute of Integral Studies. After 25 years as a successful performer, I made the transition into education. I have always considered myself a lifelong learner and am now just finishing a robust yearlong MERIT (Making Education Relevant and Interactive through Technology) Program. I am passionate about incorporating technology in our school curriculum, especially the Visual and Performing Arts."
Can you talk a little bit about Holy Names High School?
"Holy Names High School, a small Catholic school for young women in Oakland, provides an academically challenging college preparatory education in a vibrant learning environment. The school is known for its attention to the individual student, its diversity, the nurturing of spirituality, and creative expression. I believe that I owe my successful career to the Sisters of the Holy Names who believed in me and encouraged me to fulfill my dreams."
What career advice can you share to students interested in a career in education?
"Be passionate about teaching (or whatever it is you want to do as a career). The hours are long, the work can be hard but if you love what you are doing, it won't matter. Have a sense of humor. Be prepared to learn from your students. You should think of teaching as a partnership with your students. The ability to learn with your students will take you on a journey of self-discovery and wonder."
Randy Yagi is a freelance writer covering all things San Francisco. In 2012, he was awarded a Media Fellowship from Stanford University. His work can be found on Examiner.com Examiner.com.
