New chapter dawns for Kloof’s principal

IT was an emotional time for many at Kloof High School as its learners and staff bid its principal, Dawn Lefort, farewell as she heads into retirement and begins a new chapter in her life.

Originally taking up a post as a teacher at another school, Dawn was told her appointment was changed and she would start at Kloof High School as its French and history teacher from 1 January 1977. Over time, she dropped history as a subject and focussed her energy on uplifting and empowering the school’s learners with French elegance.

“The French embassy has been particularly kind to French teachers as they have sent me to take part in international courses,” said Dawn.

For her service to the French language, she received the intricate Ordre des Palmes académiques medal in 2010.

In her teaching career, Dawn has been involved in matric marking, the French Teachers’ Association, the French Curriculum Committee and, since 2008, has been a senior sub-examiner for IEB papers.

“It is a marvelously rewarding job for me. I have had the opportunity to really develop my teaching and immerse myself in the language,” said Dawn.

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Her love for France didn’t stop at its language, as she later married a Frenchman. They met in 1983 and tied the knot six years later. Their daughter was born in 1991.

“The best part of my job has been the classroom and the interaction with children. Watching someone who can’t speak a lick of French who then goes on to speak a full oral exam or write a two-and-a-half page paper. Those moments I will cherish,” she said.

Kloof High is the only co-ed school in the area that offers French and Dawn said she considers herself to be blessed to have been promoted to its principal.

She moved from her role as a Head of Department, to deputy principal, to acting principal from 2005 until 2011 when she was permanently appointed as the school’s principal.

“Another perk of my job has been the wonderful staff I have worked alongside. We have a very supportive and committed staff and a very capable management team and an excellent governing body. I have been surrounded by good and supportive people who are as committed to this school as I am. It really does make this job that much easier,” smiled Dawn.

Having worked since she was 20 years old, Dawn admitted it would be a large change for her but she is looking forward to her retirement.

“I am a very active member of my church and I will enjoy some travelling. I am hoping I will find something valuable to do with my time,” said Dawn.

“A teacher told me that I was so lucky to be leaving when I still enjoy the job – and she was right. I’m not feeling tired and burnt out, I’m just looking forward to a different side of life.”

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