“ Even during the most challenging year , my Community Impact Project was an immense source of hope and motivation . Now that we are back in Artsakh , I cannot wait to see how the resource center can expand to include more teachers who have returned to the region .”
Throughout 2020 , teachers and students around the world faced unprecedented challenges . Here in Artsakh , it was no different . We dealt with the pandemic like everyone else , but also a devastating war . These challenges have taught me the value of relationships and to live every day to the fullest . With this mindset , I strive to lead my students through difficult times with care and compassion . It is critical to teach students the importance of courage and perseverance — how not to falter at the first sign of difficulty , but to problem-solve and keep going .
Despite the year ’ s challenges , I was eager to help other teachers improve their practice . Specifically , I wanted to share new teaching methods being implemented in my school with teachers in neighboring communities . So , I synthesized my ideas into a proposal for a Teach For Armenia Community Impact Project — creating an educational resource center in my school where teachers can learn and receive training . I was thrilled when my proposal was selected for implementation ! I received funding to purchase books , games , computers , and training materials to realize my vision .
Teachers from neighboring villages were invited to my school ’ s resource center to share experiences , teach each other , and host extracurricular activities . In October , we even planned to host a 10-day training for teachers on topics such as new methodologies , classroom management , and leveraging media . Due to the pandemic , this training ended up being completely virtual and remote .
Even during the most challenging year , my Community Impact Project was an immense source of hope and motivation . Now that we are back in Artsakh , I cannot wait to see how the resource center can expand to include more teachers who have returned to the region . Together , we will inspire the future .
To read more about Elen ’ s project , see the section titled “ Community Impact Fund .”
Elen Nazaryan Shahmasur village , Martakert region , Artsakh
Annual Report 2020 15