Our Employee of the Month is Gargi Thakur!
Mrs. Gargi exemplifies dedication and innovation in her role as a teacher and supports her staff by fostering an environment conducive to growth and collaboration. Her teaching methods are dynamic and engaging, and she incorporates diverse activities such as science experiments, photography projects, and holography demonstrations to captivate her students’ interest and enhance their learning experiences. This year she has engaged with the community by inviting guest speakers and organizing exhibitions to enrich her students’ learning beyond the classroom walls. We are so grateful to have her on the Apollo team!
Gargi, thank you for being such an outstanding employee and teacher.
To show our appreciation for your dedication and hard work – please check your email this week for a special gift from us.
Check out our interview with Gargi below:
- Who are you, where do you come from, where are you going?
In India, I had the privilege of running a program for special education high schoolers for over two decades. It was an incredibly rewarding experience where I had the opportunity to work with students with a diverse range of abilities and challenges. Our program focused not just on academics, but also on life skills, vocational training, and promoting independence.
We implemented personalized learning plans to cater to each student’s unique needs, and I worked closely with families and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to education. Over the years, I witnessed tremendous growth and achievement in my students, which was incredibly fulfilling.
- How long have you been teaching with Apollo?
I’ve been with Apollo since last September and have immensely enjoyed my time here.
- What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since you started teaching?
I live by the quote “We are what our thoughts have made us; so take care about what you think.” by Vivekananda. I’ve learned to appreciate individuals with diverse abilities and recognize that diligence and an organized approach to tasks can significantly alter our perceptions of reality.
- How do you motivate your students to succeed?
Empowering students to recognize and leverage their strengths and abilities is fundamental to their growth and success. Creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment allows them to explore their potential and develop the confidence to navigate life’s challenges. As an educator, our dedication to this approach is invaluable in helping students realize their full potential.
- If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I believe each of us possesses unique strengths or “superpowers.” If I could acquire another one, it would be the ability to interpret nature’s language, thereby fostering a more harmonious environment for all living beings, both now and for future generations.
- What is your most memorable memory from your time as an Apollo instructor?
Often, when a child feels tired, unwell, or simply low, I’ve had the privilege of bringing a smile to their face. Some of our kids express their joy by drawing smiley faces, cars, ice creams, or candies on the sign-out sheets, silently conveying how much they appreciated their time with us. These memories hold a special beauty for me.
- If you could retire tomorrow and never have to worry about money again, what would you do with your time?
I would continue to work with children because they bring me a joy that I’ve seldom experienced elsewhere. Despite my background in software engineering, it was a spontaneous volunteering experience with a special child that profoundly transformed my perspective.
- What’s your go-to technique for dealing with ‘handful students’?
I prefer to engage in conversation several times, praising their positive qualities throughout. I’ve found that by doing so, I often achieve lasting positive outcomes.
- What is an unusual place you have been to?
I have hiked and camped in the most remote areas in the Himalayan Region of India, all these places were off-grid but were immensely beautiful. Some of them are Kaza, Spiti Valley, Leh, Ladakh, etc. I have also driven through the highest 4 Mountain Passes in the world.
- Do you have a talent that not many people know about?
I am a trained dancer in 2 forms of Indian classical dances and have also learned Indian classical music for a few years.
- What’s your #1 teaching tip?
Be patient, not every style of teaching suits everyone.
- What’s your favorite classroom Attention Getter?
I prefer to clap once and then raise my hands and make twinkling stars movements.
- What is something interesting that you’re involved in, outside of Apollo After School?
I like to read.
- How do you spend your summer breaks?
Mostly traveling and working on some DIY projects.
- Star Wars, Star Trek, or they’re both lame?
They are both a big part of my growing up years. Love them both.
- What do you like most about working with Apollo?
That I get to awaken the spirit of learning in the most creative way.
