We interviewed María Pérez, teacher and International Baccalaureate Diploma coordinator
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed January 24 as International Day of Education to commemorate the role of education in peace and development. Education transforms lives and breaks the cycle of poverty that traps many children.
María Pérez has been a teacher for 25 years and is currently the International Baccalaureate Diploma coordinator at a school in Valencia (Spain).
Why did you become a teacher?
I have always loved explaining things and I am curious by nature, I also remember playing the role of a teacher at school as someone strict and distant... "Mrs Perez", with a tight bun and chalk in my hair... I thought to myself... "This can be done differently". I also have to thank all the wonderful teachers I have encountered along the way: Ms Kerr, Sr Sanz and many others. And, today, it's the students that keep me going... all those eyes full of light and curiosity staring, ready to assimilate knowledge and values... it's dazzling... you can see how they blossom.
Do you think education can make a difference?
Indeed. It is the strongest rung on the ladder that will give anyone, no matter where they come from, the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life.
Do you think institutions, NGOs, charities and companies should care and invest in education?
Education and opportunity are synonymous and institutions dedicated to promoting the former will surely be bastions of the latter. Today it is not enough to have a business or a job, life needs a meaning, a purpose, the Japanese call it 'ikigai'. It is crucial for happiness. People, companies and institutions need to be 'MORE' and education, investing in it or dedicating time to it, is one of the best possible 'MORE'.
Given your experience as a teacher in both public and private schools, why do you think education is so important?
It can make you soar and achieve the goals you set for yourself, and it can also help you become more compassionate. Growth and compassion are not antagonistic and teaching that in schools in poorer or richer neighborhoods is key to education making a difference and mattering.
Does sport also play a role in education?
Yes, I think so. They should go hand in hand. In school I played volleyball and basketball and later in college I was on the 'Drosophila melanogaster' soccer team. Sport teaches strategy, discipline, commitment and teamwork. It also helps you release stress, keeps you healthy and clears your mind...plus it's fun!!!!! The combination of both is essential.
A final thought
I always use this quote from Maya Angelou with my students: "Do the best you can until you know better, then, when you know better, do better".