Southridge has always been a community that nurtures growth, curiosity, and a passion for learning. For two Southridge alumni, Josephine Carter (Class of 2017) and Karen Schmelcher (Class of 2005), this foundation not only paved the way for their careers but also inspired them to return to Southridge as educators, bringing their journeys full circle.

Josephine Carter 
Igniting a Passion for Learning

When Josephine Carter walks through the halls of Southridge Junior School as an Internal Teacher on Call, she is filled with a sense of nostalgia. Her journey began here as a student, and now, she has returned to share the same passion for learning with a new generation of students.

“Southridge fostered a sense of community and provided numerous leadership opportunities through cocurricular activities and group projects,” Josephine shares. “These experiences taught me to work effectively with others, communicate my ideas clearly, and take initiative—skills that were invaluable in my university studies and continue to influence my teaching today.”

Josephine’s teaching is shaped by the relationships she built with her Southridge teachers and peers. “The supportive relationships I built nurtured my confidence and passion for learning, shaping my approach as an educator and inspiring me to create a positive and inclusive environment for my own students.”

Her time at Southridge was marked by more than just academic growth—it was the supportive community and the dedication of her teachers that left a lasting impact. “During my time as a student, I witnessed how the educational program fostered a well-rounded education that nurtured my growth and passions. The teachers genuinely invested in our success, going above and beyond to connect with us. They infused their lessons with enthusiasm and creativity, transforming subjects into engaging and enjoyable experiences.”

Now, Josephine strives to embody that same passion and dedication. “What excites me most about contributing to the Junior School at Southridge is the opportunity to ignite a passion for learning in young students. Being part of their growth and witnessing those ‘aha!’ moments when they grasp new concepts is incredibly rewarding.”

For Josephine, returning to Southridge is not just about teaching—it’s about being part of a community that made a lasting impact on her life. “The growth of Southridge reflects its commitment to nurturing students in a supportive environment while adapting to their changing needs. It’s wonderful to see how the school has embraced new spaces that foster collaboration and engagement, all while maintaining the warmth and connection that define our community.”

Karen Schmelcher 
Nurturing a Passion for Education

Karen Schmelcher’s journey from Southridge student to Senior School Math teacher is a testament to her dedication to lifelong learning. After graduating in 2005, Karen pursued a Bachelor of Education with a focus on physics and general science at UBC, followed by an educational therapy certification from the University of California, and now, she is completing a master’s degree in education. Her career has taken her through diverse teaching environments, but Southridge has always remained close to her heart.

“I did not intend to be a teacher until I was nearly finished with my physics degree,” Karen reflects. “And I do not think I would have considered it if it weren’t for attending Southridge. I was exposed to excellence in teaching—genius teachers whose passion, dedication, and care made a huge and lasting impression on me.”

Karen’s passion for learning has remained strong throughout her career. “I am a lifelong learner,” she says. “I’ve continued to learn within my field in ways that have benefited my practice. Although I will finish my master’s soon, I’ve asked if I can defer graduation to allow me to take extra classes because I want to learn more. I like learning, it makes me a better educator—why would I want that journey to end?”

For Karen, Southridge not only ignited her love for learning but also modeled the values that continue to shape her approach as a teacher. “We have a culture of excellence and connection to our values, which aren’t always prevalent at other institutions,” she says. “In an age where a lot of people are moving toward tech, we still prioritize the person. We do this through our Advisory system, Harkness tables, and discussions. Just like we expect our students to continue to grow and develop for themselves, we model it professionally as teachers and institutionally as a school.”

Karen’s journey back to Southridge has been filled with growth, and she embraces the opportunity to learn and evolve in her new role. “Regardless of how I ended up here, I have a ton to learn, lots of room to grow, and a heck of a lot of supporters. What a wonderful way to transition into a new job, right?”

Check out current career opportunities at Southridge here!

Contributed by Marissa May, Alumni Relations
Adapted from Spirit Magazine - Fall 2024