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What does Linden look for in its teachers?
Linden looks for teachers who have not
only a Bachelor of Education or equivalent qualification but
who are specialists in their teaching fields. What's more,
they must demonstrate a strong commitment to the school's
mission. Teachers are required to have a background in women's
studies -- which can mean a degree in this field, or comparable
academic, community and workplace experience.
The school attracts highly-qualified candidates.
Some come to Linden after long careers, approaching it as
a labour of love. Some are working on projects or advanced
degrees that put them at the forefront of research into how
girls learn. When it comes to "new" versus "old"
teachers, Linden strives for balance. Some teachers have been
at the school since it was founded in 1993. Many have worked
at Linden for a number of years and are a good fit with the
school. Others come for a few years, infusing new blood and
ideas while it makes sense for the school and their own interests
or studies, before moving on to new challenges.
Hiring is a lengthy process at Linden. Before
being offered a job at Linden, all candidates spend many days
at the school. Everybody -- students as well as principals
and senior teachers -- provides feedback. Evaluation continues
after the teacher is hired. The principals know each teacher's
strengths, and the challenges they face in the classroom,
and evaluate these on an ongoing basis in order to determine
what is best for the school. As a result, Linden not only
offers teachers a chance to do what they love in the classroom,
but also to provides specific teacher education. It is therefore
not a surprise that Linden has gained a reputation for being
a valuable training ground for teachers.
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