Learning With Ms. Lai

Written by: Kieran Roy and Anirudh Biswas

Photo by: Ms. Lai

Edited by: Ava Puhlmann

Joining the Blakelock community this year is Ms. Lai, a Science and ISTEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teacher. We sat down with her to learn more about her path to teaching, her interests, and more.

Ms. Lai knew from a young age that she wanted to be a teacher, though it wasn’t until high school that she figured out what subjects she wanted to teach. This year she is teaching Grade 9 ISTEM and Grade 11 science students, however, in the past she taught French Immersion Science classes. 

As an only child, Ms. Lai is closely bonded with her parents and friends. Many of her friendships have lasted over 15 years, some even dating back to elementary school. 

“Those [friendships] are like my chosen siblings, my go-to people,” she said fondly.

While teaching has always been Ms. Lai’s dream, it hasn’t been her only job. In high school, she was an entrepreneur, selling her own homemade custom stickers and designs. This business helped cover her expenses while in university, however, she stepped away from it once she started teaching. She’s hoping to eventually get back into it, so keep an eye out for her eventual product relaunch.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Lai’s favourite TV show is New Girl, a lighthearted sitcom where the main character, Jess, is also a science teacher. As for her music taste, if she could listen to one album for the rest of her life, she’d listen to SOS by SZA.

Ms. Lai is thrilled to be part of Blakelock’s ISTEM program. She was eager to teach ISTEM as soon as she heard about it because she appreciates the freedom and creativity of the curriculum. 

“I love ISTEM... it suits my teaching style and thinking style,” she explained. 

With her combination of passion, energy, and a deep love for teaching, Ms. Lai will leave a lasting impact here at Blakelock. We are lucky to have her!