KNYSNA NEWS - Absolute dedication and a keen awareness of the vital role he needs to play in the classroom have brought deserved national honours to an outstanding young Knysna teacher.
In the final round of the Department of Basic Educa-tion's national teaching awards, after being placed first in the Eden and Central Karoo District, and then in the province, Ethon Leigh Alexander (32) won the national Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (General Education and Training) award at a gala event in Boksburg, Gauteng, on Saturday
5 October.
Alexander, the deputy principal of Fraaisig Primary School in Hornlee, Knysna, teaches maths to Grade 7 learners.
He was one of two Western Cape teachers who won awards at the event.
'Embracing this journey'
"It seems surreal. I'm just embracing this entire journey - everything that's happened since Saturday seems out of this world," he said of winning the award.
"To be honest, I don't know where I'm going to ride this wave to. It's phenomenal to be recognised for all your hard work."
He strived to be a catalyst for change in his community. "Nothing gives me more pleasure than being a teacher at a school in a community where I grew up.
"It's my greatest honour, and it's my living testament that you don't have to be confined by the limits of your upbringing," he said.
'Power of education'
"From a young age, I've understood the power of education. I was always aware of how it could transform lives and open doors.
"That understanding became my driving force as I embarked on my teaching career, where I've worked to ensure that my learners experience mathematics not as a difficult subject, but as a tool for growth and opportunity.
"I've always strived to make mathematics accessible and engaging, believing that relevance is key in helping learners connect with the material. I want them to see that maths is not just about numbers on a page but can relate to their daily lives.
'Turning point'
"The provincial stage (of the teaching awards) was a turning point in my journey. Competing against other top educators was challenging, but it was also a moment to showcase what sets my approach apart - integrating technology into my lessons.
"Whether through interactive simulations, digital assessments, or online collaboration tools, I've seen how technology can bridge gaps in understanding and make lessons more dynamic and inclusive."
'Broader conversation'
Participating in the national awards had been "an opportunity to elevate mathematics education across the country and contribute to a broader conversation about the future of teaching in South Africa".
"This journey has allowed me to reflect on how far I've come, and it inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the classroom."
The Western Cape education department said of Alexander: "Ethon's teaching approach integrates ICT with mathematics, utilising interactive tools such as ZipGrade, 'kahoots', ChatGPT, coding (Reach), and Visnos.
"Through his involvement with KILT (Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching), Ethon collaborates with other educators and stakeholders to develop and implement strategies for enhancing teaching and learning."
'Inspiring role model'
Teachers and learners at Fraaisig Primary gathered excitedly on Monday morning, 7 October to welcome Alexander back from Gauteng.
"His achievement is a proud moment for Fraaisig Primary, affirming our belief that passion and hard work can lead to extraordinary outcomes, regardless of background.
"Mr Alexander serves as an inspiring role model for both students and fellow teachers, proving that with dedication, we can all achieve greatness," Constance Stuurman, the principal of the school, said.
"We are proud to spotlight a remarkable individual whose dedication and hard work have transformed our educational community.
"Joining us seven years ago as a novice teacher, Mr Alexander quickly demonstrated an exceptional passion for teaching and a commitment to his students.
'Innovative methods'
"His vibrant approach to education and innovative teaching methods not only engaged learners but also inspired his colleagues. Through perseverance and dedication, he ascended to the role of head of department and subsequently became the deputy at our school."
As the head of sport at the school, Alexander went "above and beyond" in his efforts to obtain funding, including from the municipality, for learners, to enable them to participate in events.
Alexander has a Higher Certificate in Business Administration from TSiBA (Tertiary School in Business Administration), a Practical Certificate in Business Administration from TSiBA, a Bachelor of Education (Further Education and Training) degree in Mathematical Literacy and Economics from Nelson Mandela University, an Advanced Diploma in Education; Intermediate Phase Mathematics from Stellenbosch University, and an Honours degree in Computer Integrated Education from the University of Pretoria.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
