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Meaghan Mikkelson, a member of the women’s team that won hockey gold at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, admits that her favourite teacher is her mom, Betsy.
The Mikkelson family had a tradition of working together at the kitchen table; mom planned lessons and marked papers, and the kids did their homework.
“I always knew that my mom loved teaching and that she put in a lot of hours,” said Meaghan. “When I was in Grade 7, she was actually my English teacher. At first I was nervous about junior high, so it was comforting to have her around. We have a very special relationship. She’s passionate about teaching, so I really learned a lot. It was great.”
Added Betsy humbly, “I think my teaching style matched her learning style.”
Betsy is now a retired teacher who enjoys substitute teaching with Greater St Albert Catholic Schools, especially at her former school, École Secondaire Sainte Marguerite d’Youville. She continues to teach other teachers through the ATA’s professional development program area. As an Association instructor, Betsy facilitates interactive workshops that focus on a wide range of topics, such as effective classroom practice, diversity and global citizenship.
Two other Olympians, Shannon Szabados and Carla MacLeod, join Mikkelson to talk about their favourite teachers, see also "Teachers inspired Olympic women's hockey team champions."
