Teacher Interview: Kristy Lundström
Name: Kristy Lundström
Nationality: American
Subject: Math and Computer Science. Head of school
At school: Third year, worked here before 2000-2003
1. What is it like being a teacher at SSB?
It is inspiring and challenging. I learn something every day. I think it is a more multicultural environment than at other schools, but this is only a positive thing.
2. In what ways do you/teachers teach your subjects?
I’m trying to find ways so that every student can learn. Some students like to be told what to do and others like to figure it out themselves. Technology and group work is a great way to reach out to students; I believe that we are smarter in teams. Another great way to teach is to have one-to-one discussions. I love teaching small groups so I get to talk to every student every lesson.
3. How do you manage to combine the study plans for the different nationalities that have combined lessons?
In math it works fine. I speak English fluently since it’s my mother-tongue and the content is the same for every country. Math is a special subject because it is not as dependent on language but more about understanding.
4. Why do you think students benefit from studying at SSB?
I think we have a pretty small school where everybody knows everybody. We have the possibility to understand every learner. We are small enough for me to get everybody’s learning style, which is something that can’t be underestimated. Also it is a very short road between students and teachers at SSB, so you have a chance to affect what is going on. Another huge benefit here is that our students are motivated which creates a great academic group together with engaged teachers.
5. Are there any courses/measures that teachers at the school participate in?
Yes we have a professional development plan for every teacher. Right now there is a lot of focus on integrating technology into classrooms with the help of laptops. We are also studying the new Swedish curriculum a lot in order to make it as good as possible. Every teacher has his or her own interests, I am interested in international education, how we teach multilingual students and use it to our advantage.
6. How do you try to make your teaching ”Scandinavian”?
I am trying to teach bilingually so that you get the vocabulary in both languages. I follow the curriculum well to prepare students for the national test. I want to prepare students for going to a Nordic university, as a majority of the students at SSB generally choose to study at university. I am not just teaching math, I am trying to prepare my students for the next step.
7. You are also Head of School, what is it like being head of school at SSB?
It is challenging. It is fantastic to work with people in all ages. My days are very exciting and there is never a dull moment because something is always happening. I am still learning every day. I always want to improve and my biggest task as a teacher and head of school is to make sure that every kid learns every day.
