Behind every meaningful preschool experience is an educator whose life experiences help shape the classroom. At Au Beau Séjour French Preschool, our teachers bring more than language fluency to their students. They bring diverse cultural perspectives, real-world experiences, and a genuine passion for helping children grow with confidence. That combination helps create an environment where French is not simply taught, but naturally woven into each day through conversation, play, and exploration.
In this staff spotlight, we’re introducing Ramatoulaye “Rama” Fish and sharing more about the journey that brought her to ABS. From growing up in Senegal and living in Japan to working as a translator before discovering her passion for early childhood education, Rama’s experiences have given her a unique perspective on language, culture, and connection. Her thoughtful, caring approach helps children feel supported as they build confidence, develop social-emotional skills, and discover the joy of learning in a French immersion environment.
Children have an amazing way of teaching us to be present. Seeing the world through their eyes is one of the greatest joys of being a preschool teacher.
– Rama Fish
You grew up in Senegal, lived in Japan, and now call the United States home. How has that journey shaped who you are today?
Growing up in Senegal taught me the importance of community, respect, and caring for one another. Living in Japan for almost ten years showed me the value of organization, attention to detail, and lifelong learning. Now, living in the United States has given me the opportunity to embrace diversity and continue growing both personally and professionally.
Each country has shaped a different part of who I am. Together, they have helped me become someone who is open-minded, adaptable, curious, and deeply appreciative of different cultures and perspectives.
My own life has taught me that education, kindness, and the support of others can truly change the course of someone’s future. That belief is what I carry with me every day as a teacher, and it inspires me to help every child discover their own potential.
How have your experiences across three different countries influenced your approach to teaching children?
Living in different cultures has taught me that there isn’t just one “right” way to learn or grow. Every child comes with their own personality, family traditions, language, and experiences.
In my classroom, I strive to create an environment where every child feels seen, respected, and valued. I encourage curiosity, independence, kindness, and a sense of belonging. I love introducing children to different cultures through books, music, art, food, and celebrations because even at a young age, they can learn to appreciate the beauty of our diverse world.
You speak multiple languages. What do you love most about learning and using different languages?
Language is much more than words! It’s a way to connect with people and understand their culture.
I speak Wolof, Pulaar, French, Japanese, and English, and each language has opened doors to friendships, opportunities, and meaningful experiences. I love seeing someone’s face light up when you speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. It reminds me that connection begins with making an effort to understand one another.
Before becoming a teacher, you worked as a translator, interpreter, and life coach. What inspired you to transition into early childhood education?
Throughout my previous careers, my passion was always helping people communicate, grow, and reach their potential. Becoming a teacher felt like a natural next step because early childhood is where that journey begins.
Young children are full of curiosity, imagination, and endless possibilities. Being part of those early years while helping build confidence, independence, and a love of learning is incredibly meaningful to me.
Knowing that the care and encouragement we give today can positively influence a child’s future is what inspires me every day. Children today are the future adults in our society. Learning languages and building social-emotional skills help them build bridges across cultures from an early age.
What drew you to Au Beau Séjour, and what has your experience been like since joining the school?
What first attracted me to Au Beau Séjour was its warm, family-centered atmosphere and its commitment to providing a nurturing French immersion environment, and more importantly, its positive discipline approach.
Since joining the school in 2023, I have had the privilege of growing both personally and professionally. I’ve built wonderful relationships with families, children, and colleagues, and every school year has brought new opportunities to learn. It has truly become a place where I feel connected to a community that shares my passion for supporting young children.
What do you enjoy most about working with preschool-aged children?
Preschoolers remind me to slow down and appreciate the little things.
I love watching their confidence grow from putting on their shoes independently to solving problems with friends or proudly sharing something new they’ve learned. Their curiosity, honesty, creativity, and laughter make every day different.
Children also have an amazing way of teaching us to be present. Seeing the world through their eyes is one of the greatest joys of being a preschool teacher.
Has being a parent changed the way you approach teaching?
Absolutely!
Becoming a mother has given me an even deeper appreciation for the trust families place in us each day. I understand both the excitement and the worries that come with leaving your child in someone else’s care.
It has strengthened my empathy, patience, and communication with families. Every child I teach is someone’s whole world, and I strive to create an environment where children feel safe, loved, encouraged, and excited to learn.
Finally, if you could share one message with families considering Au Beau Séjour for their child, what would it be?
Choosing a preschool is one of the biggest decisions families make, and I know how important it is to find a place where your child feels safe, happy, and truly valued.
At Au Beau Séjour, children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, build friendships, and develop confidence while learning in a caring French immersion environment. We don’t just teach academics, we help children grow socially, emotionally, and independently.
My hope is that every child leaves our classroom feeling loved, capable, and excited about learning, carrying those qualities with them long after preschool.
If you’d like to learn more about our staff and school, schedule a tour and see how Au Beau Séjour can work for you and your family.
