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September 20.2025
3 Minutes Read

Invermay School Welcomes New Teacher: A Journey from Japan to Gurnee's Martial Arts Scene

New Invermay School teacher smiling warmly indoors.

Invermay School's Newest Addition: Combining International Experience with Local Education

This fall, the welcoming atmosphere of Invermay School has become even more enriched with the addition of Robin Fitch, a teacher whose international experience brings a unique flavor to the classroom. Following her journey from Wadena to Japan, Fitch's background promises to bridge diverse educational practices and cultural insights to her students in Canada.

A Journey Across Continents: From Japan to Invermay

After receiving her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Regina in 2016, Fitch began her teaching career in Saskatchewan. Her passion for teaching was ignited further during her time in Japan under the JET Programme, where she shared her knowledge of English with students from Kindergarten to Grade 9. This experience is not just about teaching; it’s about understanding diverse learning styles and cultural perspectives, valuable skills she plans to leverage in her new role.

Filling a Vital Role in Education: Teaching Middle Years

At Invermay, Fitch will teach middle-year students in subjects like English Language Arts (ELA), Practical and Applied Arts (PAA), and Career Education. She expresses a deep understanding of the importance of student connection, saying, "I think my favorite part of being a teacher is getting to know the students and helping them succeed." This ethos underscores the heart of effective education and aligns seamlessly with the values that many parents of young students cherish.

Fitch’s Approach: Engaging Students Through Passion

Alongside her regular teaching duties, Fitch is also encouraging student involvement in extracurricular activities such as cross-country running and various school clubs. By promoting participation in these activities, she is fostering an environment where students can thrive not only academically but also socially and physically—qualities that parents value immensely in children's education. This holistic approach complements the realm of martial arts training, which emphasizes discipline, camaraderie, and personal growth.

Passion Beyond the Classroom: Art, Writing, and Martial Arts

Outside school hours, Fitch pursues personal interests that further enrich her teaching toolkit. Her love for reading, writing, and art demonstrates the importance of creativity in education, while her ongoing studies in Japanese signal a lifelong commitment to learning. Additionally, her background in karate echoes her dedication to self-discipline and perseverance—traits synonymous with martial arts training. As a community member, her story resonates deeply with local families interested in karate and self-defense classes, enriching their understanding of the importance of physical fitness and mental resilience.

Local Connection: Engaging Families in Martial Arts

Invermay School’s focus on well-rounded development mirrors what many families seek in Gurnee's martial arts programs, whether it be karate, self-defense, or other forms of fitness training. Local martial arts schools not only provide classes for children but also cater to adult beginners and seasoned martial artists, allowing families to engage together. As Fitch integrates her teaching strategies, similar principles found in martial arts—such as respect, dedication, and teamwork—will resonate throughout her classroom.

Conclusion: Empowering the Next Generation Through Learning

As the 2025/26 school year progresses, the blend of Robin Fitch’s international experience, artistic passion, and care for student development ensures that Invermay School will foster an inspiring learning environment. For parents seeking martial arts classes in the region, whether for self-defense, fitness, or community involvement, there’s never been a better time to explore Gurnee martial arts offerings.
Consider checking out programs that celebrate discipline and growth for the entire family.

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