The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Laura Harris
ATA News Staff

The title of teacher is an ­immense source of pride for Julius Buski. That much was evident to those who witnessed his acceptance of honorary membership in the Association at the Annual Representative Assembly.

Vice-President Sharon Armstrong introduced Buski and, in the process, reeled off a most impressive list of achievements that clearly illustrated his ascension to numerous prestigious posts throughout his career. He became a classroom teacher with Edmonton Public Schools at the age of 18. Later, he took on the roles of school administrator and deputy superintendent. He was president of both the Edmonton Public Teachers Local No. 37 and the Greater Edmonton Teachers’ Convention Association. He came to the Association in 1980 as an executive staff officer in the Professional Development program area, quickly rose to the position of associate executive secretary and was appointed to the top post of executive secretary in 1988, where he provided the Association with strong and inspirational leadership for 10 years. From 2000 until 2005, he was secretary general of the Canadian Teachers’ Federation.

Lofty stuff. And undeniably worthy of the standing ovation he received when he took the stage to receive what is the Association’s highest honour, given to those who have provided meritorious service to the teaching profession.

Still, teacher is the title by which Buski has always wanted to be identified.

“I am very proud to be a teacher,” said Buski, relaying his story of how acquaintances would ask why, when people inquired as to what he did, he always said he was a teacher—even when he held what most would deem more exalted positions. Buski said he would acknowledge those other positions, but would always add, “I am there because I am a teacher.”

Buski is retired, but it is clear that the teacher in him isn’t. He still has the passion and determination that helped drive successful efforts such as the 1997 Public Education Works campaign—an effort that culminated in ­thousands upon thousands of teachers from across the province marching for their rights on the grounds of the Alberta legislature. These days, he channels that passion and determination—and indulges his love of the teaching profession—into his work with Rotary International. With that organization, he continues to work in the area of teacher development and currently chairs a related initiative in Belize.

Buski’s outstanding record of service to the teaching profession at the classroom, school, school board, local, provincial, national and international levels—recognized by the Association through its bestowment of honorary membership—leaves no question as to Buski’s place in ATA history. In turn, Buski’s comments left no question as to the place the award of honorary membership has in his heart.

“I am honoured, proud and humbled to be receiving this award from my Association,” said Buski. “I tell you honestly that of the awards I have received, this is the most precious and the most meaningful.”