The Alberta Teachers’ Association

 

Teacher… Leader… SUPERHERO!

Teachers from all across the province are involved in the work of the Alberta Teachers’ Association in various capacities. Such volunteer efforts by members are critical to the effective operation of the Association.

Paced Learning Program, Special Education 10 to 12, Jack James High School, Calgary

How long have you been teaching?

Fifteen years

Why did you become a teacher?

I always knew I would be a teacher. I can’t remember not wanting to be a teacher. I loved everything about the classroom and the work.

Current Association role

Chair, Political Action Committee and recently elected as vice-­president of Calgary Public Teachers’ Local No. 38

What are your main responsibilities?

Political engagement, member engagement, being part of the executive family

What do you enjoy most about this work?

I enjoy the camaraderie of working with others focused on promoting public education and celebrating all that we do. It is an opportunity to meet others who are passionate about their work.

What other roles have you held with the Association?

School representative, member of Calgary Area Field Experience Committee (CAFEC), Strategic Planning and Research Committee (SPARC), Political Action Committee (PAC), Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) and other acronyms J

Why do you do this work? Why is it important?

Early on I realized that a strong Association benefited students as well as teachers. I think it is part of the professional obligation of teachers to contribute. And I happen to love the work involved.

How (or why) did you first become involved in Association work?

A colleague volunteered me to attend a Council of School Representatives meeting. It was interesting. I never looked back.

What is your favourite ...

Movie?

Love Actually (or any Richard Curtis film, really)

TV show?

The National

Band/singer?

Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats

Book?

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Summer vacation activity?

Spending time with my family in Nova Scotia or adventure travel with my sister

Travel destination?

Anywhere with a thrift shop to ­treasure hunt

What superpower would you most like to have and why?

My first thought is to freeze time, but just so I could draw moustaches on people with a marker. That is not very adult of me, but it speaks to my inner child.

What was your first car?

A 1983 two-tone brown Chevrolet Chevette named The Walnut. I painted all over it, much to the chagrin of my mom. ❚