Star teacher of the week

Elizabeth Joseph Jeanine Burger is an English grade 4 teacher and the head of department for Afrikaans and English for grades 4-7 at the Kronlein Primary School in Keetmanshoop. She also runs the school library, which has turned from being well used, to children rushing over at break times to borrow books. Burger among other things is also a mentor to the Senior Primary novice teachers. She has also helped with the implementation of a new computer lab. This dynamic teacher stops at nothing to see a positive change happen in their school. “I have also been fortunate to assist in all extra administrative duties as well as all IC challenges experienced by the staff,” Burger says. Although Burger says that she never thought that teaching would be a career path that she’d embark on, she knew that when God places you somewhere there’s no running from it. “I believe that teaching is a calling. Although I have been involved with teaching, Sunday school and “Kinderkerk” from a young age, I never believed that teaching was mine. In fact, I vehemently believed that it was not, but when God decides that there is a road He wants you to travel, you can be as stubborn as you want to, that is the road you will follow,” she said. Motivations “Making a difference. Every day is the chance to make a difference, even if it is only in one person’s life. One small act of kindness can open a world of possibilities for the next person.I have been mentor teacher to the Senior Primary novice teachers for a couple of years now, and this is a strong motivation for me. I am passionate about helping new teachers find their feet and learn how to become the best teachers that they can be,” Burger mentions. She says another thing that keeps her motivated is her library. She gets to live out her passion for books and reading, while helping others realise their potential through reading.Passion“The other passion I have had all my life was books, which I am now living out as the IC teacher, in charge of the School Library. I can share my love of books and reading with children, a combination of the great passions in my life. Each time I see the light in a child’s eyes after he or she has discovered how much they love reading, I feel like I have reached the highest heights,” she further eludes. Besides my family, books and children, Burger is avidly passionate about justice. She believes that there is a right way to do things and that being conscientious, doing these things as they are supposed to be done, will help one reach the heights that you were meant to reach. Although being a teacher has had many fulfilling moments for Burger, she says that it has had equal challenges. “Travelling through the journey of life with God as my compass helps me overcome each and every challenge set before me. He has given me so many invaluable tools to aid me in overcoming challenges. My husband often has to listen while I vent and get rid of my frustrations. He is my soundboard, and helps me find the most appropriate ways to handle situations. I do not believe that speaking in anger will resolve a matter successfully. A kind word at the right time soothes a bothered soul,” she says. Biggest lessons learned Keep trying. If at first, you don’t succeed, try again.Talents“I am a cultural person. I play various musical instruments, enjoy writing and directing plays, and writing poems and stories.I am currently in the production phase of my first novel, after being accepted by a London based Publishing House.” She says. Favourite pass times“At the moment, I am concentrating on writing my own books, and do not read much other than children stories (both at home and school- for the children).Music fills my soul and rejuvenates me. My favourite song depends on my emotional needs. If I’m in the mood to shed a tear or two, I love to listen to Michael Buble’s Close Your Eyes.For religious motivation, I listen to Romanz’s ‘Ek sal Getuig’. We have a whole bevy of songs that has special meaning to our family. Our house is filled with song.I still have many places in Namibia that I want to visit. But if I have to choose one favourite, it would have to be Ai-Ais.” Burger says.

Star teacher of the week

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Republikein 2025-08-07

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Star teacher of the week

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Republikein 2025-08-07

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