Between them, they have almost 65 years of service here, and they have had to adapt to the many changes in their profession — particularly computer technology.
In fact, they continue to be inspired as they learn new ways to learn. “I learn something new every day,” says Cogan, 56, a Westmont resident who teaches second grade and is in her 33rd year at Merchantville School, which is for children from prekindergarten age to the eighth grade. Cogan, who enjoys watercolor painting in her spare time, takes pleasure in seeing her students blossom as the months go on. “Every child can learn,” she says. “I’m convinced of that.”
Swanson, 53, of Haddon Heights is entering her 31st year at the school. She teaches speech and English to all grades and agrees that it is a joy to see her students reach a learning breakthrough. “You’ll watch a child, who at first doesn’t understand anything at all, reach that moment when they grasp it,” she says, “and that is an incredibly moving moment. It touches your heart.” Not only have Cogan and Swanson witnessed the advent of computer instruction, they’ve also seen the trend over the last decade toward cross-content curricula — single lessons that expose students to many subjects. “But the basics are the basics,” Cogan says. “That never changes.”
The standard of excellence that both teachers strive to uphold never changes, either. “Jean and Annette are master teachers,” said Harris Ransom, principal of Merchantville School. “They both share the unique ability of being able to work with different age groups and are always attending professional workshops to upgrade their skills and enlighten themselves.” Cogan and Swanson have not only been colleagues for more than three decades, they are also good friends. They enjoy hiking together and have also begun dabbling in antiques. “Maybe because we’re becoming antiques ourselves!” Swanson quipped.
One thing is for sure: Both are looking forward to teaching future generations at Merchantville School with both eyes — and lesson planners — wide open.
by Frank Halperin, Courier-Post at (856) 486-2920 or fhalperin@courierpostonline.com
