Teacher From Orang Asli School Wins RISE Educator Award 2024 For His Innovative Teaching
Sometimes, even the smallest gestures can have a profound impact on students.
By Imelda Priveta — 13 Jun 2024, 04:26 PM
Shawn Stanly Anthony Dass, a teacher teaching in a remote village in Gerik, Perak, has been crowned the winner of the RISE Educator Award 2024 for his dedication and innovative teaching
The RISE Educator Award is a renowned initiative by Taylor's College and its student engagement arm, The Risers. It shines a spotlight on educators who demonstrate outstanding commitment and innovation in the field of education.
This annual award, now in its fourth consecutive year, recognises teachers who go above and beyond to inspire and empower their students, particularly those in underserved communities, highlighting the transformative power of education in Malaysia.
Shawn, who teaches at Sekolah Kebangsaan RPS Banun, received RM5,000 for his remarkable efforts and an additional RM20,000 for his school.
Shawn was among five inspiring teachers with the most votes on Taylor's College's social media platforms for their inspiring stories
The top five teachers included Shawn, Anne Margarette Kho from SK Belipat, Sarawak; Muhammad Anas Murugan Abdullah from SK Seri Intan, Perak; Siti Ainulmursyida Shamsudin from SMK Orkid Desa, Kuala Lumpur; and Siti Intan Farahana Mhd Fauzy from SK Bandar Laguna Merbok, Kedah.
At the award ceremony, Josephine Tan, Campus Director of Taylor's College, emphasised the college's commitment to equitable education for all students.
"At Taylor's College, we believe in ensuring every child has equal opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. We aim to foster lifelong learning, inspire innovation, and nurture every student's potential.
"Collaborating with past RISE Educator Award winners and finalists has shown us the profound impact of these funds, inspiring us to increase the grant this year. Beyond the RM20,000 awarded to the winning school, we remain committed to supporting their educational aspirations," she said.
The ceremony was also graced by Deputy Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Wong Kah Woh and Teach For Malaysia's Interim Head of Fellowship, Sawittri Charun.
Shawn's innovative teaching methods have profoundly enriched student learning and engagement at SK RPS Banun, an all-Orang Asli school where illiteracy and high dropout rates are significant challenges
Through simulations and real-world experiences, Shawn has created an enjoyable and impactful learning environment. One of his notable projects includes the development of a flight simulator and a beach-themed marine conservation class, both of which have been instrumental in helping students grasp complex concepts through experiential learning.
"In my classroom, inclusion is key. My teaching methods have boosted student motivation and participation, leading to improved attendance and confidence. This has nurtured resilience and grit, encouraging students to embrace learning.
"While illiteracy isn't completely solved, there's been progress since June 2022. By providing learning opportunities and empowering students, academic performance and extracurricular involvement have soared. As my students continue to excel, it showcases their potential and underscores the importance of providing opportunities and believing in their abilities.
"Winning this award underscores the immense potential of our students. I am deeply committed to providing them with the best learning experiences and opportunities to realise their full potential," remarked Shawn.
Each finalist of the RISE Educator Award 2024 also received RM1,000, with an additional RM10,000 allocated to their schools to enhance facilities or infrastructure, supporting a conducive environment for quality education
The selection process for the winner and finalists blended public votes (25%) with the evaluation of a distinguished panel. This panel, which included Tan, Chan Soon Seng (Chief Executive Officer of Teach For Malaysia), and Cikgu Kumaresan Muniandy (RISE Educator of the Year 2023), assessed the nominees' efforts and impacts (75%) to determine the recipient of this award.
