Panthers of ISKL #350: Karien Hoogenboezem - The Dutch Panther
I enjoyed a break from working while settling in with our two oldest boys. We had our third son, Xander, there, and I was asked if I would be interested in teaching Dutch to young children. That was my first step in education
Meet Karien Hoogenboezem, a Dutch native who has been a much-loved and appreciated Grade 5 Classroom Teacher at ISKL for the past seven years. As she now leaves us to return to her home country of Holland, we take time to read her story and wish her all the very best in the adventures that lie ahead for her and her family.
Here is Karien’s story
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I was born in a small town called Bergambacht in the Netherlands. At the age of 8, I left my birthplace with my family to live in Dubai, where I attended the Jumeirah American School (JAS). After spending three years in Dubai, we moved to Singapore, where I attended the Singapore American School for another three years. Then, back to the Netherlands, where I finished my High School years and moved on to university. I studied Communication Science at the University of Amsterdam.
After university, I worked for EDS (Electronic Data Systems) in Antwerp, Belgium, as an application trainer and later as a business analyst. Then I moved on to project management at British Telecom and Toyota Europe. When my husband had the opportunity to work abroad, we decided to leave Belgium behind us and move to Croatia. I enjoyed a break from working while settling in with our two oldest boys. We had our third son, Xander, there, and I was asked if I would be interested in teaching Dutch to young children. That was my first step in education.
After Croatia, we moved on to Qatar, where I also worked for the Dutch School. Our next move was to Vienna, Austria. It was there that I decided to get a degree in education so I could also apply to the larger International Schools. We moved to Cairo, and after completing my degree, I got a job at the New Cairo British International School (NCBIS). I worked there for three years in the Early Years section before moving to Kuala Lumpur.
Having arrived in Kuala Lumpur and chosen ISKL as the right fit for our middle son, Niels, who had to transition into a new school for his final two International Baccalaureate years, I landed in Julie’s office. I started as a substitute teacher, receiving 6 am phone calls from Sumathy almost every morning. Then, mid-year, a new Grade 5 classroom was opened, and I was offered the position of Grade 5 classroom teacher. The following August, I started in Prep Senior, where I have been for the past seven years.
What was the most enjoyable and most challenging part of your job?
The children! It has been an absolute joy teaching our little panthers.
Who or what inspired you most at ISKL?
So many people have inspired me here. My wonderful colleagues Sarah, Kim, Naji, and Damen, with whom I worked for many years in Prep Senior. Julie, for all her support and trust.
Can you share with us an experience, idea, or quote from ISKL that you will always carry with you through life beyond the school?
Once a Panther, Always a Panther!
What is your best memory (or most memorable moment) of working at ISKL?
There are so many good memories, but the graduations of my two youngest sons are my best memories. They were both very different, one during lockdown at home, and the other in the Jungle Gym.
Do you have any words of wisdom for any new members joining our ISKL community as faculty or staff?
I believe everyone should write their own story in their own way. At ISKL, you can.
What are your plans once you leave ISKL?
My family needs me back home, so that’s where my next chapter will be. Lots of uncertainty at the moment, but I’m confident things will fall into place once I’m there.
Which Panther superlative will you remember yourself as?Share why you chose this superlative and why it shows the Panther spirit you will carry forward with you!
I’m the Most Baik Panther because K is for Kindness!
Tell us why ISKL will remain special to you:
I Suka (Like) ISKL because of all the beautiful moments that this vibrant international community shares with each other. The International Flag Parade, Christmas Around the World, Lunar New Year, Diwali, Hari Raya, and many more wonderful celebrations we share. As well as how everyone’s individual identities are celebrated.
What does “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” mean to you?
It’s our vision! The words we live by and model to the children every day.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always has an anecdote to tell, loves to share some insights into their passions and interests, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.