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Prepnet Portals
Gilles-Valère Woosem
Member Information
| Department(s): | Modern Languages |
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| Position: | Modern Language |
Other Information
| Biography |
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French teacher Gilles-Valère Woosem may be new to Sandia Prep, but he’s already making his mark -- with enthusiasm, warmth, and a contagious love of language. “I’m passionate about teaching because it’s all about connection,” he says. “Through French, I get to bring the world into my classroom -- its stories, music, laughter, and real-life experiences. I love helping my students see that language isn’t just words or grammar; it’s a living art that brings people together. My goal is for them to leave my class not only speaking better French, but also seeing the world with more curiosity, empathy, and openness.” A native of Cameroon, Woosem discovered his calling when he saw how language can bridge cultures and open minds. “Inspiring teachers and real-world experiences showed me that education can change perspectives,” he explains. “Teaching is my way of helping students see the world with curiosity and empathy.” At Sandia Prep, he’s found a perfect fit. “I love that students here don’t just study a language -- they explore culture, ideas, and empathy through hands-on projects and real-world experiences,” he says. “Through poems, films, and conversations in French, I hope they’re learning to understand others and find their own voice.” One of his favorite moments so far? When his sixth graders made him sign a “contract” promising to share details about his side hustle as an option trader -- and nearly the whole class signed as witnesses. “It was a hilarious and heartwarming moment that showed how curious, creative, and engaged our students are,” he says. “It reminded me how much joy and connection there is in teaching at Sandia Prep.” Woosem likes to remind his students that mistakes are part of learning: “They don’t define us -- they refine us, just like in life.” And his classroom rule keeps things light: “We don’t put feet on the seats unless we remove the shoes!” With more than seven years of experience teaching middle school, upper school, and university students, Woosem brings both expertise and heart to his work. Outside of the classroom, he coaches youth and senior soccer, has volunteered at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and directs SeaNoMore, an educational nonprofit he founded in Cameroon to raise awareness about the consequences of illiteracy among youth. He also enjoys gardening, yoga, hiking, soccer, and golf. As Woosem continues settling into Prep life, his teaching exemplifies his belief that language study extends beyond academics to serve as a bridge to understanding, empathy, and global citizenship -- values that resonate strongly with Sandia Prep’s mission and spirit.
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