Dennise Dombroski with Head of School, Chantal Gionet
We know how important the support and guidance of teachers is in helping students to prepare for university and beyond.
This past summer, the members of the Stanford Class of 2020 were given the opportunity to acknowledge a former educator who played a significant role in their intellectual, academic, and personal development. Nicole Ticea ‘16, chose to honour Senior School Science Teacher, Dennise Dombroski.
We were delighted to present this award to Dennise on November 22nd during Senior School Assembly, and recognize her for the meaningful impact she had on Nicole’s time at York House.
In Nicole’s own words, “Beyond Ms. D’s intelligence and scientific passion, there lies the most kind-hearted soul I have ever met. In Grade 8, she approached my timid self with an intriguing proposal: present at the local science fair. Ms. D’s boundless energy was contagious; we discussed everything from new research ideas, cool technologies, and funding. It’s hard to quantify Ms. D’s impact, simply because ALL that I love seems to stem from that first fair I entered back in Grade 8.”
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 Ross Petersen, Science Teacher, Senior School
Ross Petersen, Science Teacher, Senior School
What has impressed you most about the students at York House School? The girls are appreciative of the efforts educators and staff make to enrich their learning. A “thank you” goes a long way in life, and demonstrates humility. At the end of every class, the girls pass on a “thank you” to the teacher. Positive feedback is under-emphasized in society, and when combined with great work habits and integrity, is quite progressive.
What inspires you most about the subject that you teach? Everything! As you read this sentence, infinitesimally small chemicals are shutting across infinitesimally small cellular spaces in your brain, enabling you to translate these words, form ideas about the writer, and reflect. Science is about the pursuit of truth and meaning, and unraveling the mysteries of nature. The forever-discovery nature of science, when combined with the tranquility and inspiration of being in nature, makes science a seamless and inspirational fit pour moi.
What are you most looking forward to at York House in the coming months? Building genuine relationships with staff and students. This is perhaps the best part of being an educator. Morning coffee, a casual high five, or smile in the hallway over a shared experience. I’m also excited to integrate these humanistic qualities with compelling activities and discussions in and out of the classroom. Last but not least: as per the grade 8s, “some more explosions” too.
What is something that people might not know about you that you would like to share? Bowl cut, freckles and an Indiana Jones… leather… fanny-pack. Go team.
What is your favourite book of all time and why? The truth is, I have read one traditional book in my life. I believe it was called “Terror at the Zoo.” I read it in Grade 5 as a choice read in a mandatory reading block. But yes, I do read non-fiction in the form of academic research papers. At some juncture, I may become the novel type. Maybe. But for now, hiking and science journals bring me inspiration.
