Maria Caswell

1978 - 2005
A mainstay of the foreign language department, Maria Caswell applied her life's adventures to the classroom and the community.
At the age of 12, Caswell, a native of Hamburg, Germany, moved to Toronto, where she was forced to accustom herself to the English language. She later translated this experience in the educational setting for students who had the desire to learn a second language.
Caswell, who was known affectionately as "Frau," began teaching a single AP German class before becoming a full-time German and French instructor in both the Middle and Upper Schools. She also advised the German Club and served as a class advisor for several years.
Caswell retired in June 2005 after 28 years with Cranbrook.

Highlights:
Crane Clarion article, February 2001.
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  • Mitch Burt
    Fantastische! Frau Caswell, you're still one of my fondest memories of Cranbrook. Whatever happened to CP?
  • Janice David
    Even though Frau was the teacher I feared most at times, I also respected her the most for pushing me to my fullest potential. I am very greatful to have had her as both a teacher and an adviser. Studying German will never be as rewarding as it was with her.
  • Ernest Adams
    Frau was one of the most influential people in assisting the Class of '94 to undertake the Passage of Leadership Ceremony for Junior boys, which is now tradition! While I never had Frau as an instructor...I would just like to say "Thanks". You helped lay the groundwork for me (and the entire steering committee) for how to properly manage a project plan with the scope and magnitude of the Ceremony! Thanks for laying the foundation for a skill that I have used every day in my professional career!
  • Andrei Stephens
    Frau was one of the most important people in my Cranbrook experience. She was a wonderful teacher and friend. I am exceedingly sorry for all of the German students who had her for only a couple of years, as I am sure that while CK will find a worthy teacher, there can be no substitute.
  • Susan Iskiwitch
    Maria Caswell is the best French (yes...FRENCH, she's multi-talented) teacher I have ever had. She planted the seed of my interest in the language. She is such a REAL and passionate human being and I fondly look back at my time as her student.
  • Jerome Kosman
    So Die Frau has finally left the campus. No more January mornings of chilly healthy air pouring into the german classroom, or her heavy sarcastic wit that even when you knew she was joking you still weren't sure until she cracked that smile and let out that you poor old fool laugh of hers letting you know finally that she was joking. Iconic, revered and feared she is a woman of strong presence and sound principles. I dare say it is a great loss to Cranbrook, though a boun to the great emerald city of the west coast. Perhaps I might even be fortunate enough to run into out here. Tusch bist nachste zite Frau.
  • Susan Doss
    Maria Caswell was one of the most important infulences in my life while I was at Cranbrook. She challenged me as a student and as a person and with out a doubt she has shaped who I am today.
  • Jessica Tucker
    Frau Caswell is the faculty member who had the greatest influence on the my life. Because of my relationship with her (as mentor and friend) I have become a more interesting, intellectual and intelligent person. She is an amazing woman with an insightful wit and maginificant ablity to encourage greatness in her students.
  • Gregory Pizzino
    Frau Maria Caswell helped me throughout my time at Cranbrook, always willing to go the extra mile to make sure I made it through not only her class but through all my classes.
  • Albert Petrucci
    Mrs Caswell was my advisor and friend. She continually challenged me to be the best that I could be. I will never forget the help she gave me and I am grateful to have known her.