#MantraMonday – World Teacher’s Day

Every Monday I share a different ed tech quote on our Thompson Classroom social media pages for our staff to consider.  

This week’s Mantra is:

Today is World Teachers Day and I’d like to dedicate this post to all of the teachers who go above and beyond for their kids, even when it isn’t convenient for themselves.

My experience as a student is incredibly diverse ranging from meeting overwhelmingly positive and supportive educators to discouraging and rage-enducing. Luckily, I say with confidence that my overall experience trended positive, despite the small hurdles I encountered. Today I’d like to formally thank some of the teachers who have made a positive impact on my life:

• The entire team at Heyes Elementary School in Swan River
  • Circa 1995-2001
  • I have many fond memories of elementary school and, from a student perspective, all of the teaching staff, support staff, and admin team seemed to get a long so well.
  • My memories are of this being a very happy student-centered building with lots of emphasis on PBL, outdoor activities, and physical movement.
  • Fun fact: ony of my Gr 1 teachers later moved to MVSD and I know get to work with her in my role as Coordinator (she recognized me immediately even after ~25 years)
• Mrs. Carol Larson at SVRSS in Swan River
  • Circa 2004-2007
  • Mrs. Larson was one teacher who provided support to me during a very challenging time in my life. She assisted me in finding my self-worth and building my confidence.
  • She volunteered her time over countless after-school sessions to help ensure I was able to pass pre-Calc (helping me move from grades in the 40%-range to a high-80%); this occurred during a semester when I wasn’t even formally her student.
  • Her mentorship and support has played a huge influence on how I approach teaching.
• Dr. Mike Nantais at Brandon University
  • Circa 2011-2018 (B.Ed/M.Ed)
  • Dr. Nantais is the single largest influence on my professional life. It was under his direction that I started my first blog (which has morphed into this after a 10year, 700+ post journey).
  • He was also the person to give me my first public presentation opportunity via the BYTE Conference (which has grown to almost 30 paid speaking gigs and the opportunity to travel across the country).
  • He was the first person to advocate for me publishing my ed tech thoughts (which has grown to 4 publications and more on the way).
  • He also connected me to provincial networks like ManACE which has opened so many doors in terms of provincial connections as well opportunities on other boards such as MAETL
  • It is evident as to why Dr. Nantais is on this list; he has been a constant support over the past almost-10 years!

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Is there a teacher that stands out to you? Share your memories below in the comments.