Mr. Mark Boodie
Vice Principal (Middle and High Schools)
Mr. Mark Boodie brings a wealth of experience to School of the Nations with his 38 years of teaching expertise. With a trained teacher’s certificate and a specialization in English Language, he has dedicated 19 years of his career imparting knowledge at School of the Nations. As a Vice Principal, Head of Department Languages, and Pastoral Head for the secondary school, Mark’s leadership skills and passion for education have made him an invaluable asset to the institution. His extensive experience and deep understanding of pedagogy allow him to provide effective guidance to fellow teachers and students alike, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Outside of the work environment, Mr. Boodie enjoys Karaoke and freestyle ballroom dancing.
| Years at Nations: | 19 years |
| Title: | Vice Principal (Middle and High Schools) |
| Education: | Class 1 Grade 1 Trained Teacher Certificate |
How did you become a teacher and find your way to Nations?
I started out as an Accounts clerk early on in my career and found the job tedious. I began teaching at Sacred Heart Primary and realised that this is what I loved doing. After teaching for 5 years, I went on to Teachers Training College (CPCE). In 2003 I made my way to Nations and the rest is history.
What makes Nations a unique experience?
The emphasis on the whole child, spiritually and academically. The ethos of shared commitment, and sense of “coming home” and not coming to work.
What do you love most about your job?
That would be the following:
Impacting Lives: One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students. It’s incredibly gratifying to see students grow and develop over time, and to know that I played a role in their personal and academic success.
Creativity and Innovation: Teaching is a profession that allows for a great deal of creativity and innovation. I’m constantly thinking of new and engaging ways to present material and challenge my students to think critically and creatively.
Lifelong Learning: Teaching also provides me with the opportunity for lifelong learning. Every day, I learn something new from my students, colleagues, and my own research and professional development. This keeps me engaged and excited about my work.
Building Relationships: Teaching allows me to build meaningful relationships with my students. As a teacher, I have the privilege of getting to know my students on a personal level, learning about their interests, goals, and challenges. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them grow and succeed over time, and to know that I played a role in their journey.
Making a Difference: Finally, teaching provides me with the opportunity to make a difference in Guyana and beyond. By empowering students with knowledge and skills, I believe that I am contributing to a brighter and more equitable future for all.
What is most important to you that boys and girls learn at Nations?
The importance of honesty and being of service.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Nations
Family
How do you spend your free time?
Reading mostly and connecting with friends on weekends. I like attending Karaoke sessions.
What kind of qualities do you hope to instill in kids while they attend Nations?
Honesty, Responsibility, Respect, Tolerance, Consideration, Perseverance, Empathy
If you had to describe Nations to someone who didn’t know anything about the School, what would you say?
School of the Nations in Guyana is a private, co-educational institution, founded on the Baháʼí principles, that provides a rigorous and comprehensive education to students from Pre-Kindergarten to 12th grade. The school also has a section that caters to higher education through partnerships with various universities around the world.
School of the Nations in Guyana follows the Ministry of Education’s curriculum up to 9th Grade and the Cambridge curriculum up to 12th grade Nations places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, critical thinking, and leadership development. The school offers a wide range of programs and extracurricular activities to enrich the learning experience of its students, including arts and music programs, athletics, community service, and a variety of clubs.
One unique aspect of School of the Nations in Guyana is its commitment to promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity. The school celebrates the cultural heritage of its students and encourages them to learn about and appreciate other cultures as well. As a result, the school is known for its warm and welcoming community that fosters a sense of belonging and respect for all.
Overall, School of the Nations in Guyana is a dynamic and innovative institution that prepares its students to succeed in a rapidly changing world while instilling in them a sense of social responsibility and a passion for lifelong learning.
What person inspires you and why?
My sister. She has faced all kinds of adversity (the latest breast cancer) head-on and has come out a successful accomplished person.
What does leadership mean to you?
Collaboration and inspiring others to do their best work.