Meet Johanne Chévere!

As part of our ongoing series Meet Our GDS Faculty and Staff, we are excited to present: Meet Johanne Chévere!

Read the Q&A below to learn more about Johanne.

Primary Role: LMS World Languages Department Chair and Spanish teacher

Pronouns: she/her

Years at GDS: 23

What do you love about GDS?

For me, the most exciting part is the exchange of perspectives—how different backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking contribute to deeper understanding and care. There’s so much to learn from one another, and it’s in these conversations, in the give and take of ideas, that real insight happens. It’s a reminder that no single viewpoint holds the whole picture, and that the most meaningful growth happens when we listen, challenge, and learn together.

Why do you do your job?

I teach children for the profound impact it carries—the knowledge that each effort, each moment of care, ripples outward, shaping individuals in ways seen and unseen. It is the privilege of planting seeds, of igniting understanding, of weaving something lasting into the fabric of another’s growth. I feel this work transcends duty; it is a calling, a dialogue between purpose and possibility, a commitment to leaving the world a little wiser, a little kinder, a bit more connected than I found it. And what better way to bring people together than through languages? Teaching a language is about opening doors, building bridges, giving someone the confidence to connect with the world in a whole new way, and the power to understand and be understood.

A favorite part of your job?

The people. 

The children—seeing the world through their unfiltered wonder, their boundless hope, and their quiet belief that they can make it better energizes me. I learn from them everyday, and that is the most extraordinary gift of all.

And my amazing colleagues—they make every challenge feel more manageable and every success more meaningful. There’s something special about collaborating with people who inspire, support, and push each other to grow. Whether it’s brainstorming ideas, tackling tough problems, or simply sharing a good laugh in between, the camaraderie and sense of purpose we share makes the work all the more rewarding. 

Your work style in a few words? 

A reflecting chameleon. Ask me more about it. ;)

A top hope/wish for your students?

My deepest wish for my students is that they walk through life with purpose, leaving a meaningful impact wherever they go— by embracing the quiet power of kindness, integrity, and intention. That they find joy in the beauty of simple moments—the warmth of laughter, the fulfillment of hard work, the peace of knowing they are enough. I hope they shape the world not by how much they take, but by how much they give.

Personal pastimes?

I find so much joy in cooking dinners for family and friends, creating floral arrangements, and setting beautiful tables. There’s something deeply fulfilling about sharing a meal with good company, knowing that the simple act of gathering around food can bring people closer. I also treasure the time spent with my fur babies—playing, cuddling, and just basking in their joyful, uncomplicated love. Trips with my family are always a highlight, creating memories that stay with me long after the journey ends. Long walks with my best friend in the world—my husband—are my favorite kind of peaceful escape, where we can simply enjoy the conversation and each other’s company. I love music, whether I’m dancing freely around the house or getting lost in my favorite songs. Leisure Sundays have a special place in my heart, starting with church and followed by an unhurried lunch with family, savoring not just the food but the warmth of being together.

One thing about yourself your students/colleagues/others probably don't know?

I never had fast food, canned soup, or frozen meals until I was an adult! 

I grew up on a tropical island, the Dominican Republic, in the heart of the city, and just 25 minutes from the beach. Yes, our weekends were filled with trips to the ocean, but what really set my childhood apart was how our lush backyard with over 20 tropical fruit trees, paired with a  farm in the countryside, meant that our meals were always fresh and locally grown—even the meats were sourced from the farm…. sometimes still alive! (nightmare fuel!). Because of this, I couldn’t help but wonder about the things we didn’t have. Carton juice, canned soup (with letters in them!), frozen meals, boxed (colorful) cereals and fast food all felt like a distant, almost magical world. TV commercials would rave about them, and I’d imagine what it would be like to taste those exotic pleasures. While I semi loved the fresh, natural life I had, there was always that quiet curiosity about the world beyond my farm-to-table existence. 

If you happen to have a bucket list, one thing on your life bucket list you've already accomplished?

If I had a bucket list, being a mom would have been right at the top. It was always something I dreamed of, and when the time came, I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity—especially because I was blessed with an amazing daughter who is kind, intentional, thoughtful, and endlessly inspiring. Watching her grow has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Motherhood has been a journey filled with love, growth, and plenty of lessons—some expected, many not. It’s challenged me, shaped me, and given me a perspective I never could have had otherwise. It’s an experience that has redefined what truly matters to me.