If you’ve ever taken French at our school before, or even have friends who have, you’ve probably heard of beloved teacher Roseline Berger. French is notorious for being difficult to learn, and yet it doesn’t feel that way in her class.
This can partly be attributed to her unique teaching style.
“When I started teaching, I wanted to make sure my students did what they were supposed to. I realized really quickly it’s not about that. The students must be in charge of their own education and have a voice and choice in pretty much anything and everything,” Berger said.
This is a quality you will not find in every teacher. Many students think her flexibility is the reason why French class is so enjoyable.
“She was so accommodating and always wanted to help students do their best,” senior Ally Bass said.
While some may think teaching Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum in a foreign language sounds like their worst nightmare, Berger has a different perspective. She fully embraces the various units, ranging from science and technology to the art and history of the Renaissance.
“I love all the AP units. I just love anything that has to do with teaching my students the beauty of art,” Berger said.
Her passion for teaching is clear when you walk into her classroom. Colorful posters and flags adorn every available surface, making it easy to forget the pain of conjugation and how you have to know what the gender of the door is.
For Berger, the benefits of learning French extend far past the language itself.
“More than 300 million people speak French in the world. Everywhere you go, anywhere you go, when you meet someone who speaks French, you have this common language. I wouldn’t say it’s the language of love–it’s a little crazy to say that–but it is this connection,” Berger said.
It’s evident Berger has mastered that connection with her students. While she’s done an amazing job of preparing our school’s students for French at a higher level, there is no denying that her absence will leave a hole that will be hard to fill.
