Want to live a happy life? Learn how to: apologize for your mistakes, find joy in the little things, and live with respect for yourself and others. Those are just some of “Laddy’s Life Lessons.”
Laddy, more formally known as Jane Marthy Ladouceur, has a long history with Academy of the Holy Names. She (Class of ‘79) was a student here along with her four sisters. Teaching here was also her first job out of college. After leaving for other challenges, Mrs. Ladouceur returned to her alma mater in 2011 for her second tour of duty.
“I value my students,” Ladouceur says, “I like them as people and enjoy their company.” Ladouceur particularly likes working with students on extra curriculars, like Pep Club and Chess Club. “It is the time spent outside the classroom, working on a shared project, where I really get to know the students. They always impress me with their creativity, maturity, and willingness to join in with whatever crazy plan I have in mind.”
Ladouceur believes that its size is part of what makes AHN special. “In a school this size, you really get to know your colleagues. When I have a question, a problem, or want to share something to celebrate, I am immediately drawn to the teachers and administrators. We all support each other.”
Encouraging students to challenge themselves is important to Ladouceur.
“Any time a student challenges themselves to do something hard is when growth happens. I provide support and structure for them to take on whatever challenge they put forth for themselves.”
But Ladouceur is also a big fan of letting students learn from their mistakes.
“Everyone falls down,” she says. “The key to being a better learner is resilience, not brilliance. Mistakes and failures are part of the process. Its perseverance that matters.”
She says in a close-knit community like AHN, it’s the smaller victories that have the largest impact.
“It’s the student who gains confidence to take on an academic challenge, or the student who made a speech at Ring Ceremony or pep rally when she was terrified of public speaking. Those victories are what I love about teaching here.”
“The school isn’t perfect, the teachers aren’t perfect, and the students aren’t perfect, but we keep trying to be better and make a difference to our school and community, and we do it together,” Ladouceur says. “What more could you ask?”