ShastaGray

1. Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and what were you doing before arriving at THINK Global School?

My name is Shasta and I call Alaska home. Alaska is a place that encourages travel and exploration and that has heavily influenced my life experiences. I attended four high schools in four years and did my first foreign exchange in Japan. The blend of education and travel continued into my university career as I studied abroad in Swansea, Wales, and went on to become a 49th State Fellow and earn a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education with a Masters in Teaching from the University of Alaska. After graduation, I worked in both elementary and secondary schools in Alaska before making the leap into international education at an American school in Bangkok, Thailand. The love of travel blended with a student-centered approach and community-minded thinking led me to THINK Global. Prior to TGS, during and hopefully long afterwards, I consider myself to be an adventurer and outdoor enthusiast who enjoys creative pursuits. Rock climbing, hiking, biking, running, and swimming are just a few of the outdoor activities I love. I am an avid quilter and reader as well as a certified Yoga instructor. I want to use my platform to empower and motivate others through movement.

2. What are your favorite aspects of your job?

I enjoy so many things about being an educator, one of my favorite is being able to support and participate in student’s passion projects. The level of learning, excitement and challenge that is involved is incredible to witness and the ability to support that learning is deeply rewarding. The experiential nature of education at TGS and the immersive cultural experiences are a wonderful privilege and I am so thankful that, as an educator, I am part of these moments. Travel is also a great bonus!

3. What aspects of THINK Global School’s educational model do you find most appealing?

So many things about the TGS model appeal to me! The opportunity to travel and have an immersive experience combined with the Changemaker curriculum and the focus on learning through individual and community passions. The emphasis we place on being a holistic, balanced, and contributing member of a community and the artistic freedom and ownership of each learner’s experience is phenomenal.

4. If you could make one major change to global education, what would it be?

Access. An education that is available to all learners and focuses on their needs, and encourages growth with a curriculum that is reflective of the community and the global world in which we live, none of that can happen unless people have the freedom and support to access that education.

5. Which of our core values do you feel you most embody, and why?

The core value that I feel I most embody is Empathy- to treat others with understanding, compassion, and respect. I would extend the idea of empathy to also include the environment as well as all other living beings.

6. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

The next place I haven’t been! The world is a big place, and I want to see all of it!

7. What is your favorite book, and why?

I have so many! The Little Prince has long been a childhood favorite of mine. In recent years I have come to adore the work of N.K. Jemisin, Sherman Alexie, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Tana French as well as Jasper Fforde and so many others!