We are pleased to introduce our new Employee Spotlight section where you have an opportunity to read from some of York House School’s newest additions.
Meet Jenn Skelding, Assistant Director, Junior School
What has impressed you most about the students at York House School?
The young women of York House are articulate, confident, creative and kind. In the classroom, playing four-square on the yard, or on the volleyball court, I notice that our girls demonstrate respect for others and love to laugh together. I have enjoyed observing them settle into a new school year with a joy for learning. Many young mathematicians excitedly tell me that math is their favourite subject and I have seen our girls persevere through an excellent struggle to solve a problem. I am looking forward to many “ah ha!” or “light bulb moments” as our girls discover their limitless capacity to enact change through critical thinking and innovation!
What inspires you most about school leadership?
I love to learn. I have been a leader of learning for 23 years. To some, that seems like a long time in school! What I have come to realize is that every year, I have a new opportunity to begin afresh! There are always new learners looking back at me. Young, or young-at-heart, there is always something new to learn and new relationships to build. As a leader of learning, I want people to feel safe, respected and that we are always moving forward, knowing more, and doing better. School is a place of synergy! When people come together motivated to learn in a purposeful way – anything is possible! To this end, YHS 2030 is what drew me to York House and speaks to my heart: “Our mission is to empower young women to be active global citizens with the courage to act on their beliefs and make a difference.”
What are you most looking forward to at York House in the coming months?
I am cherishing this time making connections and building relationships. I value the conversations I have had getting to know our girls. I look forward to connecting with parents on the King Ed Lay-by and school events. Learning alongside our teachers offers me a glimpse into their passion and their heart for teaching. I would also like to extend a “thank you!” for allowing me to feel so welcome!
What is something that people might not know about you that you would like to share?
I am a Mom to three amazing children: Hannah, 19 and studying at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Reid, 16 and getting taller daily and driving (eeks!), and Leif, 14 and playing as much basketball as he can. My husband, Bernie is a Presbyterian minister and our whole family (including our little dog, Teebo) is loving the west coast vibe and activity!
What is your favourite book of all time and why?
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is my all-time favourite read! I re-read this classic at least once every two years along with watching the BBC, Hollywood, Bollywood and modern web-based vodcast versions. My family can quote significant lines from the book and every Christmas, I am treated to a special Austen inspired gift – last year it was a mug that says “Mrs. Darcy”! I love this book for the strong, intelligent and quick-witted heroine, Elizabeth. She is flawed and often wrong but Elizabeth is quick to reflect and adjust. I am never away from home without an Austen novel in hand.