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Maritza Vorster

Deputy Superintendent

Maarif Saudi International School for the Sciences and Arts

With 25 years of experience as a dedicated teacher and educational leader, Maritza Vorster has fostered student engagement and innovative learning. A PhD candidate specializing in student engagement, she has extensively collaborated with educational institutions to develop and implement inquiry-based teaching strategies. Her work focuses on equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world, ensuring they are prepared for the future's dynamic challenges. Passionate about education, Maritza is committed to creating meaningful, engaging, and forward-thinking learning environments.

SPEAKER SESSIONS

27 May, 2025 | 11:10 to 11:30
Enhancing Engagement in Kindergarten and Lower Elementary

Engagement in kindergarten is crucial as it lays the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. At this developmental stage, children are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. To foster this engagement, it is essential to design learning experiences that are rooted in their interests and build upon their prior knowledge. By incorporating diverse teaching strategies, such as play-based learning, hands-on activities, storytelling, and inquiry-based methods, educators can create a dynamic and interactive classroom environment. These approaches not only captivate young learners but also support their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Engaging students in meaningful and personalized ways helps them feel connected to the learning process, encourages active participation, and nurtures critical thinking and creativity. By meeting children where they are and guiding them toward new discoveries, educators empower students to thrive both in and beyond the class