The York School 2024/25 Year in Review - Celebrating Helen Gin

In June 2025, Middle School Principal Helen Gin retired after 23 years at The York School and 33 years in education. She shared her reflections with Head of School Struan Robertson.
STRUAN ROBERTSON:
What are some of your contributions to York that you’re most proud of?

HELEN GIN:
In 2012, when York decided to restructure the Middle School, I was asked to take the lead. After doing research and learning from others in similar roles, I pulled together a task force of educators, parents and kids who helped me create a distinct division that honoured and supported the developmental needs of Middle School students, and enabled them to have a voice. It was a privilege to lead them. I’m also proud of introducing a mentoring program for newly minted faculty members. I recognized that veteran teachers had a lot to offer so I asked them to help the new teachers fit into the community. I’m also pleased that I was able to coach and mentor many teachers who moved into new roles or got promoted.
 
SR: Before coming to York, you taught at IB schools in Belgium and Japan. What are some of the aspects of the IB program that really resonate with you?
HG: There are features of the IB program that I find exceptionally impactful. One is the fact that the units of study in the IB MYP are centered on student inquiry, which guides the teaching and learning. Engagement is highest when students are curious and ask questions. Second, in the DP, components of the framework are tied to creativity, activity and service, which enables students to give back to their communities and become more globally-minded.

SR: What were the highlights of your last year at York?
HG: I recreated some experiences that represented all my years of teaching.
I was a chaperone on the Music trip to Puerto Rico, I managed the Grade 7 boys’ basketball team, and I taught one Grade 11 and one Grade 12 Biology class. I also asked a few teachers to orchestrate a flash mob. It took place during the assembly for International Women’s Day and after I gave a presentation encouraging women and girls to be GOATs (greatest of all time). We danced to Respect by Aretha Franklin. 

SR: What are your plans for your retirement?
HG: I’ve been on a coaching journey for the past five or six years. I worked with a personal coach, and then took courses in my free time to become a certified coach. I want to create a leadership and career coaching business for people who are in education or other fields and need a champion to help them realize their career goals. This is what I aimed to do every day throughout all my years at The York School. 
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