Nestled within the vibrant and bustling heart of Shanghai lies the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) – a place where enchantment and learning converge to create magic every day. Today, we are delighted to share the inspiring story of Katherine Langford, a dedicated educator from Canada, who embodies our series theme, “Greatness Starts With Attitude.”
Katherine’s decision to join WISS was sparked by the enchanting atmosphere she experienced upon her first visit. The school’s environment, resources, and learning spaces exuded a sense of magic that was irresistible. But the real magic, as Katherine discovered, begins each day with the interactions between the educators, parents, and students. It’s in these moments that the school’s ethos of sincerity and kindness truly shines.
From a young age, Katherine’s father instilled in her the metaphor of life as a mountain climb – a never-ending journey filled with challenges, obstacles, and successes. He taught her that the key to navigating this journey was to maintain a positive attitude and welcome all experiences with a kind heart.
Katherine’s parents, both psychologists, nurtured her understanding of kindness from an early age. They introduced her to a Portuguese saying “kindness meets kindness.” This principle became a cornerstone of Katherine’s philosophy: radiate kindness, and it will return to you.
Every day, Katherine brings her life philosophy into her kindergarten classroom. She greets her students with a big smile and a genuine interest in their learning. She believes in celebrating every moment and radiating warmth and kindness, creating an environment where students feel valued and inspired.
Katherine’s advice for parents echoes her own approach to life and teaching: keep your heart on your sleeve and maintain an open mind when it comes to your child’s learning journey. Remember, the climb up the mountain may be steep, but every step is a part of the journey towards greatness.
In the end, Katherine’s story reminds us that greatness truly does start with attitude. It’s about welcoming each day with a positive outlook, embracing challenges with a kind heart, and, above all, understanding that the magic of education lies in the sincere and kind interactions we have each day.
