Since 1996, Robert Slabodnik has served as the French teacher for Sedro-Woolley High School. After many years, he plans to take a well earned retirement to live out the rest of his years with his wife and daughter.

Slabodnik has taught around the world, teaching French students English and of course, teaching American students French. “The students, staff, and community have taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of building meaningful relationships,” said Slabodnik.

Surprisingly he doesn’t plan to move back to France in retirement.

“I would love to spend extended time in France during retirement, but I don’t think I would move there permanently. My family, friends, and Pacific Northwest rivers, mountains and coast are so dear to me, though France will always feel like a second home,”

He filled the entire language hallway with passion for French culture, and innovative teaching methods. “I’ve learned that students learn best when they feel supported, engaged, and confident enough to take risks with language. I like to say that if you doubled my salary but required me to teach using a textbook, I would flat out refuse the offer,” said Slabodnik.

After years of French dance offs, French club events, taking students to France and Vancouver Canada, Slabodnik has made his mark on SWHS.
“Don’t be afraid to try something totally new, to make mistakes, and to stay curious about the world, and remember — “On apprend toute sa vie” — we learn our whole lives.”