As the new school year gets underway this week, many new teachers are joining first-time Chinook's Edge School Division (CESD) students and returning pupils.
Fifteen new teachers got their introduction to the school division during the annual New Teacher Orientation Aug. 19 - 22 which division officials say is considered to be one of the most extensive mentorship programs in the province.
The four-day program was meant to increase teachers' understanding of the culture and expectations at CESD. As part of an ongoing mentorship program, each new teacher was also invited to be paired with a seasoned CESD teacher to share ongoing support, encouragement and professional development.
“This orientation week has been so helpful and positive,” said Samantha McWade, who recently graduated from Red Deer College. “We are all being supported and encouraged, and it has set a great foundation for the start of our teaching careers.”
McWade will be teaching at École Steffie Woima Elementary School in Sylvan Lake. In a rare occurrence, her brother Sean is also starting his first year of teaching just up the road at Sylvan's École Fox Run School. Both graduated from CESD schools in Sylvan Lake, and are excited to begin their careers in their hometown.
When asked what drew this group of teachers to become part of CESD, many mentioned the sense of community. The emphasis on collaboration, professional growth, and opportunities to work together as teams have become known beyond the division's boundaries.
“This is a connected school division with a great sense of community. We could see that this division puts students first, and we are both feeling really lucky to become part of that. It's a dream come true,” said McWade.
