(This interview was conducted in 2022)
…
Yves Pito is brimming with enthusiasm. The remedial teacher at Pigiurvik Primary School is one of those educators for whom teaching is more than a job, it’s a vocation.
Yves Pito makes you want to be a teacher. The Togo native arrived in Salluit in August 2022, but you would think he’s been at Pigiurvik Primary School for years. The children greet him and he smiles at each and every one of them, giving each his singular attention. He has a special connection with each one.
This is a good quality to have in his work as a French remedial teacher, given that most of the time, he works with the students one-on-one. His role is to help them progress in French, which is no easy feat given that, for most of them, French is a third language.
He is patient and dedicated. The success of his students is his biggest motivation. “When they would come to me at first, reading was challenging for them, but now their teachers tell me that they are among the strongest students. I feel that my work is truly helping. The parents are also proud of their children.”
This pride felt by the children, parents, and teaching staff drives Yves, who feels he belongs in his role as remedial teacher. Even kids who do not need his services ask to be in his class!
Although his children are not with him in Salluit at this time, Yves feels that he has found himself an extended family up north.
I feel very valued by the community. Their trust in me helps me move forward, and I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet done so to come here!