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Teachers (left to right) Ashley Tindall, Courtney Mack, James Harline and Jamie Brochu give a thumbs-up for the ATA’s Beginning Teachers’ Conference, held at Fantasyland Hotel, in Edmonton, September 27–29, 2012. Approximately 700 teachers attended the event, which featured presentations designed to help ease the first year of teaching.
These beginning teachers commented on what they’re looking forward to as teachers in the years ahead and offered their observations on the conference and teaching.
Ashley Tindall
Foremost School, Foremost
I look forward to surviving the first year and looking forward to growing more confident as a teacher. The conference lets me know that I’m not working alone as I find my place.
Courtney Mack
Bev Facey Community High School, Sherwood Park
I look forward to lifelong learning and continuing to develop my teaching skills. The Beginning Teachers’ Conference is a good place to meet people, ask questions and not feel like you’re the only new teacher. I’m looking forward to many years of happy teaching.
James Harline
Fort McMurray Community High School, Fort McMurray
For me it’s all about becoming a better teacher. This conference is helping me see what other teachers do. I want to become a better teacher and progress. I love teaching. I love coaching football and basketball, and I’ve developed a love for math and science.
Jamie Brochu
St. Justin Catholic Elementary School, Edmonton
I’m looking forward to growing with my students and developing strategies to help them with their learning. I’ve attended two sessions today and taken away information that will help in the classroom—Web 2.0 tools that will engage the students in the classroom. So far, my year has been good. At the beginning, however, I had parents who were upset about their children being placed in a combined Grade 1/2 class. That was my first challenge.
