Helene Robinson

Boston University, B.A., Phi Beta Kappa; Millersville University, M.A.; Junior Year Abroad: Lycée Jules Renard, Nevers, France; NEH grants to study in Lyon, France (2007), and francophone studies at Old Dominion (1993) and in French Canada (1984); Fulbright grant to study in Cameroon (1998); chaperone of American team for Victor Hugo's Bicentennial Celebration in Paris (2002); American College in Paris/Centre Pédagogique de Sèvres (1985); Québec teachers' retreat (2002); Acadian teachers' retreat (2004); AP certification at The Citadel and at USC. IB training in New Mexico and Montreal. Established exchange program with Lycée Fustel de Coulanges, Strasbourg, France (1994-2001); chaperone for numerous student trips to Europe and Québec Province.

Motto: Success begets success

Professional Philosophy: I feel that the key to unlocking a student's potential lies in discovering his or her passion; once fired up, it is not easily extinguished. Our passions are what drive our personalities and make us feel whole. I love to share my passion for French and travel with my students. Our challenge as educators today is to prepare students to live in a global society, respecting and celebrating our cultural differences. We must expose our children to other cultures through travel and the arts.

Having been an exchange student and seen first-hand the life-changing impact of foreign study, I have dedicated my career to promoting international understanding by taking advantage of travel opportunities myself and organizing exchanges and trips for my students. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing the glow in students' eyes as they discover not only that they can communicate with real people in a foreign language, but that there is a marvelous world beyond our borders. History comes alive as one walks through the streets and palaces where it was made. The arts reflect the soul of a culture and the vision of individuals within their historic context. In our increasingly global community, it is essential that we understand the perspectives and contributions of other societies. In learning about other cultures, we gain a better understanding and appreciation of our American heritage. As George Santayana put it: "A man's feet should be planted in his country, but his eyes should survey the world".

Professional Experience: Translator: L'Industrielle Compagnie d'Assurances-Vie, Québec, Canada (2 years); French Teacher: 34 years, primarily at Hilton Head H.S. and Southside H. S., Greenville, SC

Hobbies: Travel, writing, graphoanalysis, keeping up with my 9 siblings and their families, art, music, cinema.

Love of my life: Jim Robinson, retired teacher, translator, writer, music critic, and LP record dealer