Honorary Presidents
Greg Poile 2024
Greg taught at Foothills Composite High School for 24 years as the professional cooking and foods instructor. As a teacher, his commitment to students was evident the moment you stepped into his kitchen or classroom. Students knew his expectations of them were high, but they also knew that his space was a place they were always welcome.
From time to time the local newspaper has featured his program or other community involvements and without fail the comment section is full of his former students singing his praises. Whether it's their only time in a kitchen or the start of a culinary career, students were given the skills they needed to be successful. His culinary arts program was a benchmark for other schools to aspire to and he truly inspired a love of cooking amongst his students. He was always like a proud dad when his students competed in skills.
They say, 'we don't teach content, we teach students' and Mr. Poile embodied this care for his students. In this way, Greg set an example for his colleagues. As he greeted his students at his door in the morning and saw them off at the end of the day, Greg led by example. His kitchen kept us fed, but his heart for teaching kept us nourished.
In his last few years at Foothills Composite, a former student joined him as a teacher in the kitchen. She is quoted in the local paper, and her words speak for many other students:
"I remember coming in here (the kitchen) and he was just always there to listen," Schwarz said. "He was always there to listen to the kids, a counsellor without being a counsellor.
"Even now working with him, he's just always there for the kids, and it doesn't matter about the food as much as it matters what the kids are going through, and I felt back then, even, he was always someone you could go talk to." Greg was more than the ever-patient teacher, and that the students saw.
Greg was also a fierce defender of public education. As a new teacher, Greg encouraged me to attend my first AGM. Greg was a passionate and dedicated advocate for his colleagues, but also encouraged me to know that the defense of those rights was a collective responsibility. It is our job to show up, to speak up -- and Greg did just that! As a school rep for 14 years he served on, and chaired, a number of committees: EPC for 5 years, NSC for 5 years, and the PD chair for about 2 months, before serving as local president. Greg's knowledge and understanding of his content area and the ATA made him a leader amongst his colleagues. Greg was always willing to offer advice, lend a hand, or provide a listening ear when staff had questions or concerns regarding contracts, grievances, PD, or any matter pertaining to the profession.
A famous Canadian poet wrote that one must, "Declare what you accept as true in a way that envisions the resolve with which you accept it." Greg was resolute in his role as a member of the ATA, leading with integrity and passion. The driving force behind a successful education system is the teachers. Greg advocated for teachers to be supported in the classroom, knowing that given the right tools to do their jobs well, students would see the results. He always showed up and never hesitated to speak when something wasn't right. All of this put Greg at the heart of our school's culture. There are two generations of students shaped by his teaching and a generation of teachers moved by his example. Here are a few snippets of comments from the article in the local paper about his retirement:
Greg taught at Foothills Composite High School for 24 years as the professional cooking and foods instructor. As a teacher, his commitment to students was evident the moment you stepped into his kitchen or classroom. Students knew his expectations of them were high, but they also knew that his space was a place they were always welcome.
From time to time the local newspaper has featured his program or other community involvements and without fail the comment section is full of his former students singing his praises. Whether it's their only time in a kitchen or the start of a culinary career, students were given the skills they needed to be successful. His culinary arts program was a benchmark for other schools to aspire to and he truly inspired a love of cooking amongst his students. He was always like a proud dad when his students competed in skills.
They say, 'we don't teach content, we teach students' and Mr. Poile embodied this care for his students. In this way, Greg set an example for his colleagues. As he greeted his students at his door in the morning and saw them off at the end of the day, Greg led by example. His kitchen kept us fed, but his heart for teaching kept us nourished.
In his last few years at Foothills Composite, a former student joined him as a teacher in the kitchen. She is quoted in the local paper, and her words speak for many other students:
"I remember coming in here (the kitchen) and he was just always there to listen," Schwarz said. "He was always there to listen to the kids, a counsellor without being a counsellor.
"Even now working with him, he's just always there for the kids, and it doesn't matter about the food as much as it matters what the kids are going through, and I felt back then, even, he was always someone you could go talk to." Greg was more than the ever-patient teacher, and that the students saw.
Greg was also a fierce defender of public education. As a new teacher, Greg encouraged me to attend my first AGM. Greg was a passionate and dedicated advocate for his colleagues, but also encouraged me to know that the defense of those rights was a collective responsibility. It is our job to show up, to speak up -- and Greg did just that! As a school rep for 14 years he served on, and chaired, a number of committees: EPC for 5 years, NSC for 5 years, and the PD chair for about 2 months, before serving as local president. Greg's knowledge and understanding of his content area and the ATA made him a leader amongst his colleagues. Greg was always willing to offer advice, lend a hand, or provide a listening ear when staff had questions or concerns regarding contracts, grievances, PD, or any matter pertaining to the profession.
A famous Canadian poet wrote that one must, "Declare what you accept as true in a way that envisions the resolve with which you accept it." Greg was resolute in his role as a member of the ATA, leading with integrity and passion. The driving force behind a successful education system is the teachers. Greg advocated for teachers to be supported in the classroom, knowing that given the right tools to do their jobs well, students would see the results. He always showed up and never hesitated to speak when something wasn't right. All of this put Greg at the heart of our school's culture. There are two generations of students shaped by his teaching and a generation of teachers moved by his example. Here are a few snippets of comments from the article in the local paper about his retirement:
Doug Lerke 2023
Dedicated, caring, high expectations and hard-working professional are just a few words
to describe Doug Lerke. I have had the privilege and honour of knowing Doug Lerke from the
first time he stepped in front of his first Social Studies 10 class in Morrin School - I was one of
his students at the time and my classmates and I were handed a map of Canada and told to
label all the provinces and territories, and each capital city in its precise location (and yes it was
for marks)! He didn’t do this to be mean but he did it to let his students know that he had high
expectations and to earn their respect. Any student that was fortunate enough to have Mr. Lerke as their teacher came to understand that he had high expectations so that they had to push themselves and work hard to achieve good marks. This helped many students learn the importance of hard work, the rewards of putting in the extra effort, and the successes that came because Mr. Lerke pushed his students to reach for more.
Mr. Lerke also took that meticulous attitude from the classroom onto the volleyball court. Doug started coaching senior high girls volleyball in 1990 until 1996. He started officiating volleyball games and tournaments in the area for many years before returning to the court to coach again in 2011-2015. Doug earned respect of his teams through his strong encouragement and dedication of coaching the players to play hard and with strong sportsmanship every time they stepped out onto the court.
Doug also willingly participated in other school events and supported many student ideas. One year in an effort to raise $500.00 for “Free the Children”, students approached Mr. Lerke and asked if he would agree to shave his hair into a mohawk style if the school reached the goal in donations. He agreed and then had to follow through as the school exceeded the goal and the money was donated towards building a school in an underdeveloped
country. Other school based activities and events Doug participated in were School Reach Teams, Outdoor Education classes and excursions, caving and wall-climbing and the annual grade ten camping trip to Yahatinda, Hunter Education, community suppers, staff vs. student hockey games and volleyball games, and intramural teams.
As well as full-time teaching, coaching, officiating, and being involved in many school based and community events Doug Lerke volunteered many, many hours to Alberta Teachers’ Association Local Committees and provincial committees. Doug was the Prairieland Local No. 36 President 1998-2006, and 2012-2022. He was the Teacher Welfare Committee member starting in 2007 and then the TWC Chairperson from 2019-2022. As well as chairing the TWC, Doug was a member of the Negotiating Sub Committee from 2008 to 2020 and the Chairperson
during the majority of that time. Being the Local President, Doug was in attendance for many years at the Annual Representative Assembly and was the ARA Delegate for Prairieland in 2010 and 2011. Mr. Lerke was a member of the Calgary Area Field Experiences Committee from 2003 to 2008, and from 2017-2019 he was the Lethbridge Area Field Experiences Committee member. Doug was a member of the Professional Conduct Committee from 2002 - 2008. He also attended Summer Conference many times in different capacities over the years.
Doug Lerke was also an Association Representative for the University of Calgary Faculty of Education Field Experiences Policy Advisory Committee from 2004-2007, University of Lethbridge Faculty of Education Teacher Education Advisory Committee from 2017-2019, and Association Representative of the Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan Insurance Board from 2013 to present.
Doug has worn many hats over his 32 years of being a teacher in Alberta. He was an exemplary teacher, colleague, community member, friend, and professional.
On behalf of Prairieland Local No. 36 Executive and Members we hope that you will agree with us that Doug Lerke is a very deserving candidate of the Honorary President for the Palliser District Teacher’s Convention 2023.
- Michelle Jarvis, Secretary, Prairieland Local No. 36
Dedicated, caring, high expectations and hard-working professional are just a few words
to describe Doug Lerke. I have had the privilege and honour of knowing Doug Lerke from the
first time he stepped in front of his first Social Studies 10 class in Morrin School - I was one of
his students at the time and my classmates and I were handed a map of Canada and told to
label all the provinces and territories, and each capital city in its precise location (and yes it was
for marks)! He didn’t do this to be mean but he did it to let his students know that he had high
expectations and to earn their respect. Any student that was fortunate enough to have Mr. Lerke as their teacher came to understand that he had high expectations so that they had to push themselves and work hard to achieve good marks. This helped many students learn the importance of hard work, the rewards of putting in the extra effort, and the successes that came because Mr. Lerke pushed his students to reach for more.
Mr. Lerke also took that meticulous attitude from the classroom onto the volleyball court. Doug started coaching senior high girls volleyball in 1990 until 1996. He started officiating volleyball games and tournaments in the area for many years before returning to the court to coach again in 2011-2015. Doug earned respect of his teams through his strong encouragement and dedication of coaching the players to play hard and with strong sportsmanship every time they stepped out onto the court.
Doug also willingly participated in other school events and supported many student ideas. One year in an effort to raise $500.00 for “Free the Children”, students approached Mr. Lerke and asked if he would agree to shave his hair into a mohawk style if the school reached the goal in donations. He agreed and then had to follow through as the school exceeded the goal and the money was donated towards building a school in an underdeveloped
country. Other school based activities and events Doug participated in were School Reach Teams, Outdoor Education classes and excursions, caving and wall-climbing and the annual grade ten camping trip to Yahatinda, Hunter Education, community suppers, staff vs. student hockey games and volleyball games, and intramural teams.
As well as full-time teaching, coaching, officiating, and being involved in many school based and community events Doug Lerke volunteered many, many hours to Alberta Teachers’ Association Local Committees and provincial committees. Doug was the Prairieland Local No. 36 President 1998-2006, and 2012-2022. He was the Teacher Welfare Committee member starting in 2007 and then the TWC Chairperson from 2019-2022. As well as chairing the TWC, Doug was a member of the Negotiating Sub Committee from 2008 to 2020 and the Chairperson
during the majority of that time. Being the Local President, Doug was in attendance for many years at the Annual Representative Assembly and was the ARA Delegate for Prairieland in 2010 and 2011. Mr. Lerke was a member of the Calgary Area Field Experiences Committee from 2003 to 2008, and from 2017-2019 he was the Lethbridge Area Field Experiences Committee member. Doug was a member of the Professional Conduct Committee from 2002 - 2008. He also attended Summer Conference many times in different capacities over the years.
Doug Lerke was also an Association Representative for the University of Calgary Faculty of Education Field Experiences Policy Advisory Committee from 2004-2007, University of Lethbridge Faculty of Education Teacher Education Advisory Committee from 2017-2019, and Association Representative of the Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan Insurance Board from 2013 to present.
Doug has worn many hats over his 32 years of being a teacher in Alberta. He was an exemplary teacher, colleague, community member, friend, and professional.
On behalf of Prairieland Local No. 36 Executive and Members we hope that you will agree with us that Doug Lerke is a very deserving candidate of the Honorary President for the Palliser District Teacher’s Convention 2023.
- Michelle Jarvis, Secretary, Prairieland Local No. 36
Louis Perrault 2022
Louis Perrault is the Past President of the Three Drums of Wheat Local of the ATA. His warmth and leadership made service to our local a privilege more than a duty. Louis served as President for 3 years. He has been a dedicated member of the local, serving as his school’s representative and on various local and provincial committees over the years including Teacher Welfare and the Negotiating Sub- Committee. He has attended Summer Conference and ARA many times. Louis' gift of his personal time to the betterment of our local is selfless.
Louis began his teaching career in Consort, Alberta in 1975 and he was an active member of the ATA right from the beginning. At that time, he was involved in contract negotiations when each board negotiated separately. In 1978, he moved to Three Hills to work with his parents at the Three Hills Inn. During this time, he was very active with the Alberta Hotel Association. He went through all the chairs and was also involved with the Canadian Hotel Association. He ran the business until the decision to sell the hotel in 2005. Louis then returned to the teaching profession at the Trochu Outreach School in 2006. He had a gift for reaching youth that struggled in a traditional school setting and was very proud to serve as a mentor and role model. He most recently taught Junior High Science, Math and Horticulture at Trochu Valley. His reputation as a positive and fair teacher earned him the respect and admiration of his students. Louis coached the Senior Boys Golf and Curling teams. His Curling team advanced to Provincials. His support of school athletics spans from coaching to supporting his children and grandchildren on their various teams. Louis supervised the running of the Snack Shack which included the task of picking up supplies on a weekly basis.This real world opportunity taught students how to run a business and profits allowed for special events within the school.
Louis is a dedicated member of the Three Hills and Trochu communities. Over the years he has been a member of multiple service organizations such as the Knights of Columbus. He has made a measurable impact on the lives of students and teachers in his many years of service to them. Louis recently retired from the teaching profession and continues to serve his colleagues and school communities as a substitute teacher. His wealth of experience is of great value during these pandemic times when substitutes are so desperately needed.
I have known Louis for over 30 years in the capacity of neighbour, colleague and most recently, serving as one of his Vice Presidents of the Three Drums of Wheat local. As I reached out to his family and colleagues for specific dates pertaining to Louis’ biographical information, I was struck time and time again with how deserving he is of this honor. His passion for making things better for his students, his school, his association, and his community makes him a worthy candidate.
~ Carmen Reece - Vice President, Three Drums of Wheat, Local 20
Theresa O'Neill 2021
After graduating from Imperial High School in Imperial, Saskatchewan Theresa was not sure what she wanted to do. She worked as an educational assistant for a neighbor who was a Grade Two teacher. That teacher, Sharon, provided Theresa with the experience of what a teacher’s life was going to be like. Theresa would mark assignments, run off worksheets, and work at the school well into the night before Sharon would call it a day and they would head home. After working for Sharon, Theresa had decided that she wanted to become a teacher.
Theresa studied at the University of Saskatchewan where she received her Bachelor of Education Degree in 1982. Her first teaching position took her to the small community of Birsay, Saskatchewan. She taught kindergarten on a half-time basis. Home Economics, Industrial Arts, and Kindergarten were the only subjects taught at the school. Theresa was the only teacher at the school except for specific days when the Home Economics and the Industrial Arts teacher would be at the school as well. Theresa felt very lucky to have an educational assistant working with her that year who worked with a special needs student in her classroom. All the other grades and teachers were at the neighboring Lucky Lake School just down the road.
At the end of the year, Theresa transferred to Elbow, Saskatchewan where she started off teaching Kindergarten on a half-time basis. Elbow was a Kindergarten to Grade 6 school. She taught Kindergarten for two years and then was put into a Grade Two classroom for the next two years. While teaching in Elbow, she was very fortunate to be able to go home on weekends to help her parents on their mixed farm. While she taught in Elbow, she became involved with the Scouting Organization where she taught the youngest group, the Beavers, for three years. She enjoyed working with the young boys and taking them to camp and other outdoor activities. Theresa also attended a training course at Anglin Lake where she earned her Woodbadge II training. After teaching in Elbow for four years, she was ready to head back to school and work on a Special Education degree.
After completing her university work, she moved to Marcelin, Saskatchewan where she taught for three years. In her first year, she taught Kindergarten and Grade Three. For the next two years, she taught Grade Three. While teaching at the school, Theresa helped other teachers with the volleyball teams. Since the school had a large Indigenous population, she became aware of some of their traditions and some of the programs that the students were receiving. While teaching in the community, Theresa became involved with the Catholic Church through the teaching of First Communion and First Reconciliation to the students. She also became a lector at the Church. A friend and Theresa also joined the Senior group and went to their dance club once a week. That was quite an experience, as you can imagine. At the beginning of the third year of teaching there, the teachers were told that the school was closing and that they should all start thinking about applying for positions in other schools in the division. Theresa’s principal called her into her office and asked Theresa if she had ever thought about teaching in Alberta. The principal thought that it would be a good idea for Theresa to get her resume ready and apply for positions in Alberta. Theresa applied for two positions in Alberta and she was fortunate enough to one. Theresa had made several really good friends in Marcelin and it was very hard to move away from the community.
Theresa moved to Drumheller, Alberta, where she taught grade one for four years. While teaching at that school, she once again became involved in the Church through the teaching of the sacraments. She helped supervise at dances and other school functions. One very fond memory of her teaching experience in Drumheller was a Grade Three teacher who always had ducks, geese, and other animals in her classroom for all the students to have close contact with the animals. Her students loved it. While teaching in Drumheller, Theresa also became involved with the Peace and Development Organization. At the end of her fourth year, she read about a group in High River forming a Catholic School. Theresa applied for a Grade One position at the school and was fortunate enough to get it. The packing and looking for a place to live started all over once again.
Theresa moved to High River in 1995 just after they had had a flood. Everyone questioned her in regards to why she would want to move to a community where they had floods. She has lived in High River ever since. She started teaching Grade One, then taught resource, and then became the relief teacher. While serving as the relief teacher, she taught Music, Phys. Ed, and Social Studies for a specific grade, Science for a specific grade, and Health. During her first year in High River, she attended ATA meetings with the Foothills teachers. Theresa joined the ATA once we they had organized one. She has held the secretary position for 20 years. She has also held the secretary position for TWC for a few years as well. She became involved with the St. Francis de Sales Church where she taught First Communion and First Reconciliation for a few years, she sat on Parish Council where she was the secretary for a few years, a choir member, a lector, a Eucharistic Minister, and the Share the Word Coordinator for the little ones. She was also asked to attend a Teachers’ Convention Board meeting with Carol Henderson. After that meeting, she joined the board. Theresa served on the PDTCA board for 23 years. During that time, she met several wonderful teachers and friends. Theresa will miss them all and hopes to stay in contact with some of them throughout the years.
At the school level, Theresa has helped with Christmas concerts, led the school choir with a co-worker, organized the Terry Fox Run and Jump Rope for Heart, helped coach volleyball and basketball, archery, and helped out wherever she could.
Theresa retired from teaching in June of 2020. Everyone is telling her that it is a good year to retire, but she misses working and has her name on the list for subbing. She still lives in High River with her husband, George, and her dog, Wisp. They are hoping to do some travelling and spending more time with family and friends.
After graduating from Imperial High School in Imperial, Saskatchewan Theresa was not sure what she wanted to do. She worked as an educational assistant for a neighbor who was a Grade Two teacher. That teacher, Sharon, provided Theresa with the experience of what a teacher’s life was going to be like. Theresa would mark assignments, run off worksheets, and work at the school well into the night before Sharon would call it a day and they would head home. After working for Sharon, Theresa had decided that she wanted to become a teacher.
Theresa studied at the University of Saskatchewan where she received her Bachelor of Education Degree in 1982. Her first teaching position took her to the small community of Birsay, Saskatchewan. She taught kindergarten on a half-time basis. Home Economics, Industrial Arts, and Kindergarten were the only subjects taught at the school. Theresa was the only teacher at the school except for specific days when the Home Economics and the Industrial Arts teacher would be at the school as well. Theresa felt very lucky to have an educational assistant working with her that year who worked with a special needs student in her classroom. All the other grades and teachers were at the neighboring Lucky Lake School just down the road.
At the end of the year, Theresa transferred to Elbow, Saskatchewan where she started off teaching Kindergarten on a half-time basis. Elbow was a Kindergarten to Grade 6 school. She taught Kindergarten for two years and then was put into a Grade Two classroom for the next two years. While teaching in Elbow, she was very fortunate to be able to go home on weekends to help her parents on their mixed farm. While she taught in Elbow, she became involved with the Scouting Organization where she taught the youngest group, the Beavers, for three years. She enjoyed working with the young boys and taking them to camp and other outdoor activities. Theresa also attended a training course at Anglin Lake where she earned her Woodbadge II training. After teaching in Elbow for four years, she was ready to head back to school and work on a Special Education degree.
After completing her university work, she moved to Marcelin, Saskatchewan where she taught for three years. In her first year, she taught Kindergarten and Grade Three. For the next two years, she taught Grade Three. While teaching at the school, Theresa helped other teachers with the volleyball teams. Since the school had a large Indigenous population, she became aware of some of their traditions and some of the programs that the students were receiving. While teaching in the community, Theresa became involved with the Catholic Church through the teaching of First Communion and First Reconciliation to the students. She also became a lector at the Church. A friend and Theresa also joined the Senior group and went to their dance club once a week. That was quite an experience, as you can imagine. At the beginning of the third year of teaching there, the teachers were told that the school was closing and that they should all start thinking about applying for positions in other schools in the division. Theresa’s principal called her into her office and asked Theresa if she had ever thought about teaching in Alberta. The principal thought that it would be a good idea for Theresa to get her resume ready and apply for positions in Alberta. Theresa applied for two positions in Alberta and she was fortunate enough to one. Theresa had made several really good friends in Marcelin and it was very hard to move away from the community.
Theresa moved to Drumheller, Alberta, where she taught grade one for four years. While teaching at that school, she once again became involved in the Church through the teaching of the sacraments. She helped supervise at dances and other school functions. One very fond memory of her teaching experience in Drumheller was a Grade Three teacher who always had ducks, geese, and other animals in her classroom for all the students to have close contact with the animals. Her students loved it. While teaching in Drumheller, Theresa also became involved with the Peace and Development Organization. At the end of her fourth year, she read about a group in High River forming a Catholic School. Theresa applied for a Grade One position at the school and was fortunate enough to get it. The packing and looking for a place to live started all over once again.
Theresa moved to High River in 1995 just after they had had a flood. Everyone questioned her in regards to why she would want to move to a community where they had floods. She has lived in High River ever since. She started teaching Grade One, then taught resource, and then became the relief teacher. While serving as the relief teacher, she taught Music, Phys. Ed, and Social Studies for a specific grade, Science for a specific grade, and Health. During her first year in High River, she attended ATA meetings with the Foothills teachers. Theresa joined the ATA once we they had organized one. She has held the secretary position for 20 years. She has also held the secretary position for TWC for a few years as well. She became involved with the St. Francis de Sales Church where she taught First Communion and First Reconciliation for a few years, she sat on Parish Council where she was the secretary for a few years, a choir member, a lector, a Eucharistic Minister, and the Share the Word Coordinator for the little ones. She was also asked to attend a Teachers’ Convention Board meeting with Carol Henderson. After that meeting, she joined the board. Theresa served on the PDTCA board for 23 years. During that time, she met several wonderful teachers and friends. Theresa will miss them all and hopes to stay in contact with some of them throughout the years.
At the school level, Theresa has helped with Christmas concerts, led the school choir with a co-worker, organized the Terry Fox Run and Jump Rope for Heart, helped coach volleyball and basketball, archery, and helped out wherever she could.
Theresa retired from teaching in June of 2020. Everyone is telling her that it is a good year to retire, but she misses working and has her name on the list for subbing. She still lives in High River with her husband, George, and her dog, Wisp. They are hoping to do some travelling and spending more time with family and friends.
Jerri Perrin 2020
Jerri Perrin spent 30 years teaching at Veteran School, in Veteran, Alberta. Her assignment was a grade 3 and 4 split homeroom and elementary Phys. Ed. Before amalgamation, she was the secretary and a member of the bargaining committee for the Neutral Hills ATA Local. After amalgamation, she became her school’s representative for the newly formed Prairieland ATA Local #36. Through the years, she has served on various committees in her local, including Professional Development, Teacher Welfare Committee and C2. Before retirement, she held the role of Vice President. She was a member of Prairie Land School Division’s Health and Wellness Committee and Indigenous Committee. At the school level, she represented her staff on School Council, and volunteered in the library. Her leisure pursuits center around outdoor activities including golf, running, cycling and helping her parents on their ranch.
Jerri Perrin spent 30 years teaching at Veteran School, in Veteran, Alberta. Her assignment was a grade 3 and 4 split homeroom and elementary Phys. Ed. Before amalgamation, she was the secretary and a member of the bargaining committee for the Neutral Hills ATA Local. After amalgamation, she became her school’s representative for the newly formed Prairieland ATA Local #36. Through the years, she has served on various committees in her local, including Professional Development, Teacher Welfare Committee and C2. Before retirement, she held the role of Vice President. She was a member of Prairie Land School Division’s Health and Wellness Committee and Indigenous Committee. At the school level, she represented her staff on School Council, and volunteered in the library. Her leisure pursuits center around outdoor activities including golf, running, cycling and helping her parents on their ranch.
My husband, Darcy Meyer, taught junior high and coached for 35 years at Veteran School. When we retired last June, the community surprised us with a trip to New York, including 2 Yankees games. This photo is from the top of Rockefeller Center.
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In the classroom
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Lorrie Morales 2019
From the time Lorrie was a little girl in a grade two classroom in Lloydminster, Alberta, she was determined to be a teacher. In the decades that followed, she touched the lives of countless individuals through her radiant energy and bottomless well of patience; and it was much needed. Teaching in a middle school setting for 20 years demands it.
Before retiring in 2016, Lorrie spent two decades guiding, advising, counseling, and educating students from grades six to eight in High River at École Senator Riley Middle School. However, many years before that Lorrie got her first job as a high school English teacher and was the English department, in Daysland, Alberta where she lived in the teacherage and took over for the first woman in Alberta to graduate with a Shop Degree from the University of Alberta – Ms. Purvis.
Afterwards, she made her way to Grande Center where she worked as the only female in the English/Social Department. This was followed by a position at Nelson Heights School in Cold Lake, where she also worked for Lakeland College as a writing instructor for military personnel.
Upon moving to High River in 1988, Lorrie worked as a substitute teacher, as well as an Adult Education Instructor, before finally landing at Senator Riley (when it was still a junior high/high school).
During her career, Lorrie also served other roles as an advocate for teachers in various capacities, which has included the following:
But, according to Lorrie, the best parts were the:
Although Lorrie is now retired from full-time teaching, the passion she has for helping others has never faded. She continues to spend time in the classroom guest teaching, as well as working for the Calgary Regional Consortium as a Designer of Professional Learning.
Teaching careers are often tracked and recorded according to class lessons, days, weeks, years, and summer holidays, but the impression our profession has on students is something that is truly immeasurable.
From the time Lorrie was a little girl in a grade two classroom in Lloydminster, Alberta, she was determined to be a teacher. In the decades that followed, she touched the lives of countless individuals through her radiant energy and bottomless well of patience; and it was much needed. Teaching in a middle school setting for 20 years demands it.
Before retiring in 2016, Lorrie spent two decades guiding, advising, counseling, and educating students from grades six to eight in High River at École Senator Riley Middle School. However, many years before that Lorrie got her first job as a high school English teacher and was the English department, in Daysland, Alberta where she lived in the teacherage and took over for the first woman in Alberta to graduate with a Shop Degree from the University of Alberta – Ms. Purvis.
Afterwards, she made her way to Grande Center where she worked as the only female in the English/Social Department. This was followed by a position at Nelson Heights School in Cold Lake, where she also worked for Lakeland College as a writing instructor for military personnel.
Upon moving to High River in 1988, Lorrie worked as a substitute teacher, as well as an Adult Education Instructor, before finally landing at Senator Riley (when it was still a junior high/high school).
During her career, Lorrie also served other roles as an advocate for teachers in various capacities, which has included the following:
- Executive Committee – served as Vice President and Secretary – Middle Years Council – ATA
- Summer Conference Attendee - ATA
- Pathways to Learning Committee – Foothills School Division Professional Development – Division-wide
- Assessment Committee – Foothills School Division
- Technology Committee – Foothills School Division
- PD Representative and Co-Chair – ATA Locals
- Associate Instructor – ATA - Beginning Teachers Conference / Teacher Convention – Calgary, Lethbridge / Professional Development Committees and Divisional Instructional Days
- AISI (Alberta Incentive for School Improvement) Project Leader and Lead Team Member
- Learning Coach
- Resource Review Committee – Health, Social Studies 8, High School Novels
- Student teacher mentor (10- 12 times) from Universities of Lethbridge, Alberta, Calgary
- TAC (Teacher Advisory Committee)
But, according to Lorrie, the best parts were the:
- Sharing lunch with students who did not have one
- Smile on the faces of the players she coached when we won the game or they got a ride home
- Help she could offer to others during and after the Flood of 2013
- Moments that really matter in the daily life of the students and staff.
- Field trips - from outdoor camping to Spruce Meadows
Although Lorrie is now retired from full-time teaching, the passion she has for helping others has never faded. She continues to spend time in the classroom guest teaching, as well as working for the Calgary Regional Consortium as a Designer of Professional Learning.
Teaching careers are often tracked and recorded according to class lessons, days, weeks, years, and summer holidays, but the impression our profession has on students is something that is truly immeasurable.
Cindy Gerodo 2018
Cindy Gerodo’s involvement with the ATA began her first year of teaching when she was encouraged to go to an ATA meeting and was nominated as Treasurer! This was in 1977 and other than a brief stint with mat leaves, she continued to be actively and proudly involved as a member of the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
She has been a school rep at Greentree School for the past 18 years.
She was the Professional Development rep for her school for many years.
She served as Public Education Works chair for her area.
She was chair of the Substitute Appreciation Week for a number of years.
She has sat as the vice-president for the Three Drums of Wheat Local since its amalgamation and before that served as the president of the Drumheller sub-Local.
Cindy served on the Calgary and Area Field Experience Committee (CAFEC) and through this committee she was nominated to serve as a rural representative on the Werklund School of Education Field Experience Advisory Committee for the past ten years. (FEPAC)
She was elected to serve as a delegate at the Annual Representative Assembly (ARA) for the past 15 years.
She worked towards the establishment of the Mentorship Committee and served as the chair and liason with the Board for this important committee.
Cindy was chosen to be a member on the Professional Code of Conduct Committee (PCC) for two years and then selected as vice-chair of the Complainant Appeal Committee (CAC) in Edmonton for the past two years.
At present, she serves on the Economic Policy Committee (EPC) and is one of the three members of the Negotiating Sub-Committee (NSC) preparing for contract negotiations.
In addition to her work with the ATA, she has served on several Board committees ensuring representation of teachers from the steering committee for administration to policy, teacher wellness, teacher liaison, physed. curriculum prioritization and numeracy to name a few.
Cindy has been with Golden Hills for the last 40 years. She spent a number of years in grade two but especially enjoyed teaching struggling learners in a Learning Assistance Center, Leveled Lit program and she spent 10 years teaching physed.
She spent the last five years as associate principal at Greentree and found the opportunity for leadership and collaboration with colleagues and educational assistants, parent and students personally and professionally rewarding.
Cindy Gerodo’s involvement with the ATA began her first year of teaching when she was encouraged to go to an ATA meeting and was nominated as Treasurer! This was in 1977 and other than a brief stint with mat leaves, she continued to be actively and proudly involved as a member of the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
She has been a school rep at Greentree School for the past 18 years.
She was the Professional Development rep for her school for many years.
She served as Public Education Works chair for her area.
She was chair of the Substitute Appreciation Week for a number of years.
She has sat as the vice-president for the Three Drums of Wheat Local since its amalgamation and before that served as the president of the Drumheller sub-Local.
Cindy served on the Calgary and Area Field Experience Committee (CAFEC) and through this committee she was nominated to serve as a rural representative on the Werklund School of Education Field Experience Advisory Committee for the past ten years. (FEPAC)
She was elected to serve as a delegate at the Annual Representative Assembly (ARA) for the past 15 years.
She worked towards the establishment of the Mentorship Committee and served as the chair and liason with the Board for this important committee.
Cindy was chosen to be a member on the Professional Code of Conduct Committee (PCC) for two years and then selected as vice-chair of the Complainant Appeal Committee (CAC) in Edmonton for the past two years.
At present, she serves on the Economic Policy Committee (EPC) and is one of the three members of the Negotiating Sub-Committee (NSC) preparing for contract negotiations.
In addition to her work with the ATA, she has served on several Board committees ensuring representation of teachers from the steering committee for administration to policy, teacher wellness, teacher liaison, physed. curriculum prioritization and numeracy to name a few.
Cindy has been with Golden Hills for the last 40 years. She spent a number of years in grade two but especially enjoyed teaching struggling learners in a Learning Assistance Center, Leveled Lit program and she spent 10 years teaching physed.
She spent the last five years as associate principal at Greentree and found the opportunity for leadership and collaboration with colleagues and educational assistants, parent and students personally and professionally rewarding.
Myrna Pauls 2017
Myrna Pauls recently retired from her teaching career in June of 2016. She received a degree in Physical Education from the University of Calgary, as well as a Cer-tificate in Education. Prior to entering the public education system, Myrna worked for a couple of years at the Roland Michener Centre for the mentally challenged in Red Deer. Her entire career in public education was within the Foothills School Division No. 38 (FSD), teaching at a variety of subjects at numerous schools. She began in 1982 at Okotoks Junior High School, on to Spitzee School in High River, C. Ian McLaren in Black Diamond, Millarville School in Millarville, and at Foothills Composite High School/Alberta High School of Fine Arts as an Educational Assistant with special needs and coach. Myrna completed her teaching career at Big Rock School in Okotoks after spending 18 years as the Physical Education teacher.
Myrna was an active Convention Representative for seven years. She also served as an ATA CSR Rep for two years while working at Spitzee School in High River. In the 1980’s, Myrna participated as a member of the FSD Professional Develop-ment Committee for a couple of years. During her teaching career, she coached a variety of sports teams, including five years of high school gymnastics to both boys and girls, when it was still a sport within the public school systems. This opportunity opened up the door for Myrna to be the South Central Zone Gymnastics Commissioner for the Alberta Schools Athletic Association for a number of years. In addition, Myrna was a Palliser District Representative in the 1990’s for Quality Daily Physical Activity (QDPA). As a strong advocate for QDPA in FSD, she was able to reap the benefits by seeing schools in her division receive many QDPA banners of recognition.
Myrna’s love for physical activity was instrumental in her long-term involvement in the ATA Health Physical Education Council (HPEC) as an executive member and council member; and assisting with organizing, developing and planning HPEC Con-ferences. She was also a contributor to the Curriculum Development of the new Physical Education Program of Studies in 2000, as well as a Rubric designer. Myrna has shared her knowledge by instructing PE Workshops at Conventions, HPEC Confer-ences, and FSD Professional Development Days. For all her work, Myrna was recognized twice by her peers and received Awards of Commendation by HPEC for the Greater Calgary area in 1993 and again in 2006.
Outside of the ATA, it is interesting to note that Myrna spent 17 years as a Scouts Canada Leader in Beavers, Cubs, Ventures and Rovers…also assisting with the national Scouts Jamborees.
In Myrna’s retirement, she continues to be a lifelong learner by keeping herself busy working as a porter at the South Health Campus Hospital, as well as volunteering back at Big Rock (Elementary) School in Okotoks. Despite having hip surgery, she continues to embrace her love of sports, which she shares with her husband, Dave, by being actively involved in curling, pickle ball, camping, hiking and snowshoeing.
We at Foothills miss her positive attitude, infectious smile and great sense of humour and we could not be more proud that this honour has been bestowed upon her!
Myrna Pauls recently retired from her teaching career in June of 2016. She received a degree in Physical Education from the University of Calgary, as well as a Cer-tificate in Education. Prior to entering the public education system, Myrna worked for a couple of years at the Roland Michener Centre for the mentally challenged in Red Deer. Her entire career in public education was within the Foothills School Division No. 38 (FSD), teaching at a variety of subjects at numerous schools. She began in 1982 at Okotoks Junior High School, on to Spitzee School in High River, C. Ian McLaren in Black Diamond, Millarville School in Millarville, and at Foothills Composite High School/Alberta High School of Fine Arts as an Educational Assistant with special needs and coach. Myrna completed her teaching career at Big Rock School in Okotoks after spending 18 years as the Physical Education teacher.
Myrna was an active Convention Representative for seven years. She also served as an ATA CSR Rep for two years while working at Spitzee School in High River. In the 1980’s, Myrna participated as a member of the FSD Professional Develop-ment Committee for a couple of years. During her teaching career, she coached a variety of sports teams, including five years of high school gymnastics to both boys and girls, when it was still a sport within the public school systems. This opportunity opened up the door for Myrna to be the South Central Zone Gymnastics Commissioner for the Alberta Schools Athletic Association for a number of years. In addition, Myrna was a Palliser District Representative in the 1990’s for Quality Daily Physical Activity (QDPA). As a strong advocate for QDPA in FSD, she was able to reap the benefits by seeing schools in her division receive many QDPA banners of recognition.
Myrna’s love for physical activity was instrumental in her long-term involvement in the ATA Health Physical Education Council (HPEC) as an executive member and council member; and assisting with organizing, developing and planning HPEC Con-ferences. She was also a contributor to the Curriculum Development of the new Physical Education Program of Studies in 2000, as well as a Rubric designer. Myrna has shared her knowledge by instructing PE Workshops at Conventions, HPEC Confer-ences, and FSD Professional Development Days. For all her work, Myrna was recognized twice by her peers and received Awards of Commendation by HPEC for the Greater Calgary area in 1993 and again in 2006.
Outside of the ATA, it is interesting to note that Myrna spent 17 years as a Scouts Canada Leader in Beavers, Cubs, Ventures and Rovers…also assisting with the national Scouts Jamborees.
In Myrna’s retirement, she continues to be a lifelong learner by keeping herself busy working as a porter at the South Health Campus Hospital, as well as volunteering back at Big Rock (Elementary) School in Okotoks. Despite having hip surgery, she continues to embrace her love of sports, which she shares with her husband, Dave, by being actively involved in curling, pickle ball, camping, hiking and snowshoeing.
We at Foothills miss her positive attitude, infectious smile and great sense of humour and we could not be more proud that this honour has been bestowed upon her!
Rudy Durieux 2016
Rudy was born in San Francisco, California and moved to Lethbridge, Alberta in 1978 with his wife Wendy. With his B.A. majoring in English he then became a certified paralegal. While working at a lumber yard in southern Alberta, he served as a volunteer youth pastor. Working with kids, Rudy decided that education was a better choice. He enrolled at the University of Lethbridge and completed his B.Ed. in 1981. He then became a teacher and taught grades K-10, in the following schools, over the next 33 years:
Chamberlain School, Taber SD, 1981-87
Barons School, County of Lethbridge 1987-88
R.I. Baker, County of Lethbridge, 1988-1989
Midway Community School 1989-1995
Westglen School, Mountain View County 1995-1997
Reed Ranch School, Mountain View County, Chinook’s Edge SD 1997-2014
Rudy earned his M.Ed. during his teaching career, and served as school based administrator in three of the schools he taught at. He also became active in the local ATA during his teaching career of 33 years. He attended ARA for 20 years, was a school rep for almost his entire career, a CAFEC rep for a decade, and was on EPC. He also served as the President for the Community Schools Association of Alberta from 1982-85.
Retiring from teaching in 2014, Rudy has had more time to continue enriching other’s lives; with a healthy dose of golfing thrown in too. He currently is a first term councillor with the Town of Olds and through the Town serves as Chair of the Olds Fire Committee, Chair of the Olds Municipal Library and Chair of Parkland Community Planning Services. Rudy served on the Westview Co-op Board for 10 years (3 years as president), helps with the Olds food drive, and continues to help coach the Olds High School Spartans Football Team, something he has done for 14 years.
Rudy has served in various administrative and teaching positions for his local and area church. He has served in many volunteer callings for youth, young adults and adults. He loves reading and pondering on the scriptures.
Rudy and his wife, Wendy, have five children and ten grandchildren, who they adore. Wendy has been, not only Rudy’s best friend, partner, and wife for this journey, but has given the gift of music to her community. She has been a piano teacher in Olds for 30 years and has served on numerous Kiwanis Music Festival planning committees, plays piano for the Olds Community Choir, and has volunteered as musical director for Olds High School theatrical productions as well.
Rudy’s philosophy of teaching included using humour in the classroom and a goal to help each child in his classroom and school to be successful and happy. He enjoyed dealing with difficult parents, with a goal to help them learn more about education and the positive role of the school in their family and child’s life. He always tried to improve his professional practice and enjoyed the speakers and sessions at teachers' convention.
Congratulations Rudy on your selection as Honorary President for Convention 2016 for PDTCA.
Rudy was born in San Francisco, California and moved to Lethbridge, Alberta in 1978 with his wife Wendy. With his B.A. majoring in English he then became a certified paralegal. While working at a lumber yard in southern Alberta, he served as a volunteer youth pastor. Working with kids, Rudy decided that education was a better choice. He enrolled at the University of Lethbridge and completed his B.Ed. in 1981. He then became a teacher and taught grades K-10, in the following schools, over the next 33 years:
Chamberlain School, Taber SD, 1981-87
Barons School, County of Lethbridge 1987-88
R.I. Baker, County of Lethbridge, 1988-1989
Midway Community School 1989-1995
Westglen School, Mountain View County 1995-1997
Reed Ranch School, Mountain View County, Chinook’s Edge SD 1997-2014
Rudy earned his M.Ed. during his teaching career, and served as school based administrator in three of the schools he taught at. He also became active in the local ATA during his teaching career of 33 years. He attended ARA for 20 years, was a school rep for almost his entire career, a CAFEC rep for a decade, and was on EPC. He also served as the President for the Community Schools Association of Alberta from 1982-85.
Retiring from teaching in 2014, Rudy has had more time to continue enriching other’s lives; with a healthy dose of golfing thrown in too. He currently is a first term councillor with the Town of Olds and through the Town serves as Chair of the Olds Fire Committee, Chair of the Olds Municipal Library and Chair of Parkland Community Planning Services. Rudy served on the Westview Co-op Board for 10 years (3 years as president), helps with the Olds food drive, and continues to help coach the Olds High School Spartans Football Team, something he has done for 14 years.
Rudy has served in various administrative and teaching positions for his local and area church. He has served in many volunteer callings for youth, young adults and adults. He loves reading and pondering on the scriptures.
Rudy and his wife, Wendy, have five children and ten grandchildren, who they adore. Wendy has been, not only Rudy’s best friend, partner, and wife for this journey, but has given the gift of music to her community. She has been a piano teacher in Olds for 30 years and has served on numerous Kiwanis Music Festival planning committees, plays piano for the Olds Community Choir, and has volunteered as musical director for Olds High School theatrical productions as well.
Rudy’s philosophy of teaching included using humour in the classroom and a goal to help each child in his classroom and school to be successful and happy. He enjoyed dealing with difficult parents, with a goal to help them learn more about education and the positive role of the school in their family and child’s life. He always tried to improve his professional practice and enjoyed the speakers and sessions at teachers' convention.
Congratulations Rudy on your selection as Honorary President for Convention 2016 for PDTCA.
Lianne Enderton 2015
Lianne received her degree at the University of Calgary in 1980. Her first teaching position was a 3/4 split class at Reed Ranch School which was at that time, in the Three Hills School Division. Horses raced past her window after school as the local children would pop by to say hi when she was working late-which was and continued to be, always. It was a small school where you taught every subject and preps were a gift of the future. It was the year of another CBE strike so her first pay cheque was a whopping $868.49 due to deduction donation to the CBE strike fund.
Lianne soon moved to RVS where she completed over 32 years of teaching before taking an early retirement. Having taught grades, 2-6 and grade 9 Social Studies, Lianne often remarked that Grade Four was her overall favourite grade because of the curriculum and because "students can warn you before they have to vomit." For sheer entertainment value though, she says nothing beats grade two. She remarked at her retirement function that she wants to make a grade two teacher T-shirt that says, "I'm sorry, help me out-what's your point?" on the front and "Thanks for sharing." on the back.
Having single handedly organized school sports' days, Christmas Concerts, Remembrance Day ceremonies, charity drives, classroom rodeo nights, endless extra curricular clubs, school PD and coached sports teams for twenty years, Lianne would often remark, "It's time to share the joy the young ones." as she began to lighten her extra curricular load. She was responsible for winning a SEEDS environmental award, a provincial environmental award and the Airdrie Green Oscar award for her extra curricular efforts with the students of Ralph McCall School in Airdrie. She felt there were many teachers across the province who dedicate as much time to students as she did and often remarked at staff meetings that teachers would win Gold medals if overflowing plate spinning were an Olympic event.
Lianne was an active member of RVS Local 38 activities. She became a staunch and proud advocate for the ATA. This was not by choice, rather, by accidental involvement. The space was left open on the September sign up sheet and it was either that or Science co-ordinator. Eventually, this position became dedication. Often the only rep to attend meetings for her school, she would loudly and proudly bring back the news to the faculty. She was on the Publicity Committee of the 1990s developing a public service video, CSR Communication Committee of the 2000s, proud Convention Board member for over a decade and an EPC rep for, as she said, "Long enough." following the recent settlements. By far, the Palliser Convention Board was her most cherished ATA committee.
Lianne received her degree at the University of Calgary in 1980. Her first teaching position was a 3/4 split class at Reed Ranch School which was at that time, in the Three Hills School Division. Horses raced past her window after school as the local children would pop by to say hi when she was working late-which was and continued to be, always. It was a small school where you taught every subject and preps were a gift of the future. It was the year of another CBE strike so her first pay cheque was a whopping $868.49 due to deduction donation to the CBE strike fund.
Lianne soon moved to RVS where she completed over 32 years of teaching before taking an early retirement. Having taught grades, 2-6 and grade 9 Social Studies, Lianne often remarked that Grade Four was her overall favourite grade because of the curriculum and because "students can warn you before they have to vomit." For sheer entertainment value though, she says nothing beats grade two. She remarked at her retirement function that she wants to make a grade two teacher T-shirt that says, "I'm sorry, help me out-what's your point?" on the front and "Thanks for sharing." on the back.
Having single handedly organized school sports' days, Christmas Concerts, Remembrance Day ceremonies, charity drives, classroom rodeo nights, endless extra curricular clubs, school PD and coached sports teams for twenty years, Lianne would often remark, "It's time to share the joy the young ones." as she began to lighten her extra curricular load. She was responsible for winning a SEEDS environmental award, a provincial environmental award and the Airdrie Green Oscar award for her extra curricular efforts with the students of Ralph McCall School in Airdrie. She felt there were many teachers across the province who dedicate as much time to students as she did and often remarked at staff meetings that teachers would win Gold medals if overflowing plate spinning were an Olympic event.
Lianne was an active member of RVS Local 38 activities. She became a staunch and proud advocate for the ATA. This was not by choice, rather, by accidental involvement. The space was left open on the September sign up sheet and it was either that or Science co-ordinator. Eventually, this position became dedication. Often the only rep to attend meetings for her school, she would loudly and proudly bring back the news to the faculty. She was on the Publicity Committee of the 1990s developing a public service video, CSR Communication Committee of the 2000s, proud Convention Board member for over a decade and an EPC rep for, as she said, "Long enough." following the recent settlements. By far, the Palliser Convention Board was her most cherished ATA committee.
Carol D Henderson, Past President - 2014
Prior to her appointment as past president in 2013, Carol Henderson served two terms as president, two terms as vice-president and five terms as district representative for Calgary District. In those capacities, she chaired the CTF (Canadian Teachers' Federation) Committee, the Resolutions Committee, the Curriculum Committee, the Membership Eligibility Board, the Committee on Public Education and the Committee on Review of Summer Conference and served as a member of the Finance Committee, the Educational Accountability Committee and the Strategic Planning Group. Henderson, who was a music specialist and primary teacher at Big Rock School, in Okotoks, prior to her election as president, has taught for Foothills School Division since 1977. As past president, she chairs the Teacher Salary Qualifications Board; serves as a member of the Blue Ribbon Panel on Inclusive Education in Alberta Schools, the CTF Committee, the Finance Committee and the Political Engagement Committee; and acts as Provincial Executive Council liaison to the Mathematics Council.
Prior to her appointment as past president in 2013, Carol Henderson served two terms as president, two terms as vice-president and five terms as district representative for Calgary District. In those capacities, she chaired the CTF (Canadian Teachers' Federation) Committee, the Resolutions Committee, the Curriculum Committee, the Membership Eligibility Board, the Committee on Public Education and the Committee on Review of Summer Conference and served as a member of the Finance Committee, the Educational Accountability Committee and the Strategic Planning Group. Henderson, who was a music specialist and primary teacher at Big Rock School, in Okotoks, prior to her election as president, has taught for Foothills School Division since 1977. As past president, she chairs the Teacher Salary Qualifications Board; serves as a member of the Blue Ribbon Panel on Inclusive Education in Alberta Schools, the CTF Committee, the Finance Committee and the Political Engagement Committee; and acts as Provincial Executive Council liaison to the Mathematics Council.
Ken Perry - 2014
Beginning his teaching career in 1972 with the Calgary Rural School Division (now Rocky View School Division), Ken worked for two years establishing a shop program in Springbank. When his brother, Gary, also a teacher, suggested Ken move to Fort Macleod to teach at F.P. Walshe High School, Ken agreed and put himself in the unique position of teaching in the same shop as his brother. The two Mr. Perrys went on to run the F.P. Walshe shop program together for the next 35 years.
Ken was an active member of the ATA, acting as a school representative for all but two years of his teaching career. Not one for the spotlight, he declined opportunities to sit on the local executive, preferring a role as a quiet, but active member. For nearly 40 years, Mr. Perry faithfully attended monthly meetings, showing his dedication both to the ATA and to the teaching profession.
Mr. Perry loved teaching and lived by the motto, It's all about the students. He had a habit of looking for the good in each and every student, and made sure to recognize them and call them all by name. At his retirement assembly, a colleague of Ken's asked, How do you come to a place every day for 41 years? Mr. Perry answered, Well, you come to a place where you are loved by everybody.
Always a hard working but humble man, Ken Perry has never been one for accolades, content to dedicate himself to his school, students, and community with quiet resolve. Upon his retirement in 2012, Ken received the customary recognition from his colleagues. However, it has been said that among the most meaningful the gift he received from his students. Ken was presented with an eagle feather, the highest level of recognition within the Blackfoot culture. Knowing that he had made a real contribution to their lives was, for Mr. Perry, the ultimate recognition.
Beginning his teaching career in 1972 with the Calgary Rural School Division (now Rocky View School Division), Ken worked for two years establishing a shop program in Springbank. When his brother, Gary, also a teacher, suggested Ken move to Fort Macleod to teach at F.P. Walshe High School, Ken agreed and put himself in the unique position of teaching in the same shop as his brother. The two Mr. Perrys went on to run the F.P. Walshe shop program together for the next 35 years.
Ken was an active member of the ATA, acting as a school representative for all but two years of his teaching career. Not one for the spotlight, he declined opportunities to sit on the local executive, preferring a role as a quiet, but active member. For nearly 40 years, Mr. Perry faithfully attended monthly meetings, showing his dedication both to the ATA and to the teaching profession.
Mr. Perry loved teaching and lived by the motto, It's all about the students. He had a habit of looking for the good in each and every student, and made sure to recognize them and call them all by name. At his retirement assembly, a colleague of Ken's asked, How do you come to a place every day for 41 years? Mr. Perry answered, Well, you come to a place where you are loved by everybody.
Always a hard working but humble man, Ken Perry has never been one for accolades, content to dedicate himself to his school, students, and community with quiet resolve. Upon his retirement in 2012, Ken received the customary recognition from his colleagues. However, it has been said that among the most meaningful the gift he received from his students. Ken was presented with an eagle feather, the highest level of recognition within the Blackfoot culture. Knowing that he had made a real contribution to their lives was, for Mr. Perry, the ultimate recognition.
Bob Worsfold - 2013
Bob Worsfold is a retired teacher from Chinook's Edge School Division.
Bob was born in the LAST MILLENIUM. He graduated from the University of Guelph in Honours Zoology. At the beginning of his career Bob taught High School Science in Zambia from 1969 to 1972.
Bob went back to school and graduated from the PDAD (Professional Diploma After Degree) program at the University of Alberta in 1973.
Bob started teaching in Alberta in September 1973 in Valley View, Alberta. It was here where he met his wife Beth, also a teacher. They have two children and 4 grandchildren. Bob moved to Innisfail High School in 1974 and then to Olds High where he taught Jr. High Math and Science from 1975 until retirement in 2010. His last year of teaching was at Deer Meadow Middle School when they moved the grade 8's out of the High School into the middle school.
Bob has been responsible for the induction of many teachers into the ATA. As a staff member he was the teacher that you asked if you needed to know more about current educational or political issues. He brightened the staffroom and teacher mailboxes with many news articles and coupons for everything from coffee to A&W meals.
Bob's involvement in the ATA included countless years as the Local President for County of Mountain View and later Chinooks Edge ATA Local. He was the EPC and NSC Chair and area rep for Mountain View and Later Chinook's Edge ATA locals. Bob's endless dedication to teaching and his passion for improving the lives of teachers have made him a familiar face at the Provincial ATA events and a worthy honorary president for the 2013 Palliser District Teachers Convention.
Bob Worsfold is a retired teacher from Chinook's Edge School Division.
Bob was born in the LAST MILLENIUM. He graduated from the University of Guelph in Honours Zoology. At the beginning of his career Bob taught High School Science in Zambia from 1969 to 1972.
Bob went back to school and graduated from the PDAD (Professional Diploma After Degree) program at the University of Alberta in 1973.
Bob started teaching in Alberta in September 1973 in Valley View, Alberta. It was here where he met his wife Beth, also a teacher. They have two children and 4 grandchildren. Bob moved to Innisfail High School in 1974 and then to Olds High where he taught Jr. High Math and Science from 1975 until retirement in 2010. His last year of teaching was at Deer Meadow Middle School when they moved the grade 8's out of the High School into the middle school.
Bob has been responsible for the induction of many teachers into the ATA. As a staff member he was the teacher that you asked if you needed to know more about current educational or political issues. He brightened the staffroom and teacher mailboxes with many news articles and coupons for everything from coffee to A&W meals.
Bob's involvement in the ATA included countless years as the Local President for County of Mountain View and later Chinooks Edge ATA Local. He was the EPC and NSC Chair and area rep for Mountain View and Later Chinook's Edge ATA locals. Bob's endless dedication to teaching and his passion for improving the lives of teachers have made him a familiar face at the Provincial ATA events and a worthy honorary president for the 2013 Palliser District Teachers Convention.
Jere Geiger - 2012
Jere Geiger holds a B.Ed. degree from the University of Saskatchewan, as well as a BA in history and geography, and a Graduate Diploma in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Regina. He has taught in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and on a fly-in, Dene reserve in the Sub-Arctic. He has been both a Vice-Principal and a Principal and spent many years coaching volleyball and fastball. His most memorable fastball game was an all-nighter on the longest day of the year in Black Lake, where the sun never really sets.
Jere served as President of the ATA Local for the County of Wetaskiwin and Wetaskiwin Regional for more than ten years before being elected District Representative for Central West in 1997. He has been re-elected seven times. In his role as District Rep., Jere has served on numerous committees including: Well-Being of Children and Youth, Finance, Teacher Education and Certification, Resolutions, and Curriculum. He is currently on the Pension Committee and the Committee on Substitute Teachers. Jere has been the Provincial Executive Liaison for two subject councils, Middle Years and Global and Environmental Outdoor Education Council (GEOEC), which honoured him with their Long Service Award in 2011. He continues to serve on GEOEC.
Since first being elected to Executive Council of the Alberta Teachers' Association in 1997, Jere has served on three Convention Boards: North Central, Central Alberta (CATCA) and Palliser. During the last ATA election, Jere's District of Central West was split into two---Central and Central South. Jere represents Central and the Palliser Convention Board is now in Central South. He was pleased to be chosen Honorary Chair of the Palliser Convention Board for 2012.
Jere teaches in West Central Alberta and lives in a log house in the Boreal Forest, west of Highway #22. He and his wife have two daughters in university and a dog named Zoe.
Jere Geiger holds a B.Ed. degree from the University of Saskatchewan, as well as a BA in history and geography, and a Graduate Diploma in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Regina. He has taught in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and on a fly-in, Dene reserve in the Sub-Arctic. He has been both a Vice-Principal and a Principal and spent many years coaching volleyball and fastball. His most memorable fastball game was an all-nighter on the longest day of the year in Black Lake, where the sun never really sets.
Jere served as President of the ATA Local for the County of Wetaskiwin and Wetaskiwin Regional for more than ten years before being elected District Representative for Central West in 1997. He has been re-elected seven times. In his role as District Rep., Jere has served on numerous committees including: Well-Being of Children and Youth, Finance, Teacher Education and Certification, Resolutions, and Curriculum. He is currently on the Pension Committee and the Committee on Substitute Teachers. Jere has been the Provincial Executive Liaison for two subject councils, Middle Years and Global and Environmental Outdoor Education Council (GEOEC), which honoured him with their Long Service Award in 2011. He continues to serve on GEOEC.
Since first being elected to Executive Council of the Alberta Teachers' Association in 1997, Jere has served on three Convention Boards: North Central, Central Alberta (CATCA) and Palliser. During the last ATA election, Jere's District of Central West was split into two---Central and Central South. Jere represents Central and the Palliser Convention Board is now in Central South. He was pleased to be chosen Honorary Chair of the Palliser Convention Board for 2012.
Jere teaches in West Central Alberta and lives in a log house in the Boreal Forest, west of Highway #22. He and his wife have two daughters in university and a dog named Zoe.
Ruth Soroka - 2012
Ruth started her teaching career with the Three Hills School Division in September 1979. She taught at Viscount Torrington School in Torrington Alberta, grades five and six, for the next two years. After that, she transferred to Three Hills School in a grade two position. She taught in Three Hills for eight years, ending in a grade three position.
In the fall of 1989, Ruth moved to the Rocky View School Division teaching at R.J. Hawkey in Airdrie. Her teaching career within Rocky View included terms in Indus, R.J. Hawkey again and Elbow Valley School in Springbank teaching grade two, three or a two-three split.
In September 1996, Ruth accepted a position at Glenbow Elementary School, teaching grade four. She stayed there for thirteen years until retiring in June 2009. She continues to substitute for Rocky View and has a regular substitute position on Tuesdays and Thursday afternoons at Glenbow Elementary School.
Ruth has been active in the ATA for her thirty years of teaching; both with the now defunct Three Hills Local #53 and Rocky View Local #35. Her involvement has been as a Council Representative or as a Professional Development Representative. With Rocky View Local she sat on the executive as a Convention Representative for nine years.
Ruth became a representative for Rocky View Local on the Palliser Teachers' Convention Board in May of 1992 and continued until May 2009. She held the following positions on the executive: Evaluations Chair (4 years), Vice-President (1 year), President (2 years), Past President (6 years).
Ruth is a teacher who has continued to grow throughout her career in the classroom, professionally learning new teaching techniques and by serving on many ATA committees.
Truly an inspiration and role model to new teachers!
Ruth started her teaching career with the Three Hills School Division in September 1979. She taught at Viscount Torrington School in Torrington Alberta, grades five and six, for the next two years. After that, she transferred to Three Hills School in a grade two position. She taught in Three Hills for eight years, ending in a grade three position.
In the fall of 1989, Ruth moved to the Rocky View School Division teaching at R.J. Hawkey in Airdrie. Her teaching career within Rocky View included terms in Indus, R.J. Hawkey again and Elbow Valley School in Springbank teaching grade two, three or a two-three split.
In September 1996, Ruth accepted a position at Glenbow Elementary School, teaching grade four. She stayed there for thirteen years until retiring in June 2009. She continues to substitute for Rocky View and has a regular substitute position on Tuesdays and Thursday afternoons at Glenbow Elementary School.
Ruth has been active in the ATA for her thirty years of teaching; both with the now defunct Three Hills Local #53 and Rocky View Local #35. Her involvement has been as a Council Representative or as a Professional Development Representative. With Rocky View Local she sat on the executive as a Convention Representative for nine years.
Ruth became a representative for Rocky View Local on the Palliser Teachers' Convention Board in May of 1992 and continued until May 2009. She held the following positions on the executive: Evaluations Chair (4 years), Vice-President (1 year), President (2 years), Past President (6 years).
Ruth is a teacher who has continued to grow throughout her career in the classroom, professionally learning new teaching techniques and by serving on many ATA committees.
Truly an inspiration and role model to new teachers!
Gary Hoffart - 2010
My career started in 1976 with the Foothills School Division at Black Diamond Elementary, aka C. I. McLaren. I was asked to take over the special education class of 14 coed students ranging in age from 6 to 14 years of age. From those humble beginnings I travelled to Spitzee, Cayley, Blackie, teaching classes from Kindergarten to grade nine. During my last years in Foothills I served as an administrator for Blackie and Millarville Schools.
My interest in science and math led me to be associated and connected to A.P.E.E.G.A., Science Alberta, and Canada Wide Science Fairs. These associations helped me in being on the ground floor in developing the Science Fairs in Foothills and area. This also allowed me to develop Science Olympics and Math Fairs. Of course, none of this could have been reached without the support of my fellow colleagues and the parents of the children I had the opportunity to have n my class.
Enjoyment of the outdoors assisted me in developing Outdoor Education programs at the schools where I taught. I took this into the community and ran programs for the Boy Scouts and Venturers taking me to Alberta Wide and Canada Wide Scouting Jamborees.
I enjoyed the banter between my students and getting to know them and their families. I especially enjoyed the use of the English language and in the words of one of my parents, "We appreciate your propensity to properly proliferate your pupils' progress, your prominent humour which perpetually provides positive and practical ponderings, we take pride in your propriety and professionalism which we can't possibly or properly pontificate. We wish you much prosperity in great proportion and are proud to call you our pal."
I loved teaching. However, there comes a point in everyone's career where we pause to reflect on the history of that time. I reached that point and decided that I would like to see some different horizons and seek out new adventures. Foothills were my family for all of these years and I made some wonderful friends, colleagues and compatriots. The staff, the parents and especially the kids in each of the schools that I have been associated with have been truly awesome!
My association with the Palliser Teachers Convention Association was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. This positive experience has led me to become the Vice Chairman of FRTA, a branch of ARTA.
New horizons include working with my two older sons in developing a home construction company that embodies the ideals of sustainable and renewable energy use, varying energy sources and environmental building techniques. I am also interested in travelling and possibly teaching in another part of the world.
I have used these inspirational words from Ella Wheeler Wilcox as my guide for my life and my new horizons, "Tis the set of the sails, and not the direction of the gales, that determines the way we go.".
My career started in 1976 with the Foothills School Division at Black Diamond Elementary, aka C. I. McLaren. I was asked to take over the special education class of 14 coed students ranging in age from 6 to 14 years of age. From those humble beginnings I travelled to Spitzee, Cayley, Blackie, teaching classes from Kindergarten to grade nine. During my last years in Foothills I served as an administrator for Blackie and Millarville Schools.
My interest in science and math led me to be associated and connected to A.P.E.E.G.A., Science Alberta, and Canada Wide Science Fairs. These associations helped me in being on the ground floor in developing the Science Fairs in Foothills and area. This also allowed me to develop Science Olympics and Math Fairs. Of course, none of this could have been reached without the support of my fellow colleagues and the parents of the children I had the opportunity to have n my class.
Enjoyment of the outdoors assisted me in developing Outdoor Education programs at the schools where I taught. I took this into the community and ran programs for the Boy Scouts and Venturers taking me to Alberta Wide and Canada Wide Scouting Jamborees.
I enjoyed the banter between my students and getting to know them and their families. I especially enjoyed the use of the English language and in the words of one of my parents, "We appreciate your propensity to properly proliferate your pupils' progress, your prominent humour which perpetually provides positive and practical ponderings, we take pride in your propriety and professionalism which we can't possibly or properly pontificate. We wish you much prosperity in great proportion and are proud to call you our pal."
I loved teaching. However, there comes a point in everyone's career where we pause to reflect on the history of that time. I reached that point and decided that I would like to see some different horizons and seek out new adventures. Foothills were my family for all of these years and I made some wonderful friends, colleagues and compatriots. The staff, the parents and especially the kids in each of the schools that I have been associated with have been truly awesome!
My association with the Palliser Teachers Convention Association was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. This positive experience has led me to become the Vice Chairman of FRTA, a branch of ARTA.
New horizons include working with my two older sons in developing a home construction company that embodies the ideals of sustainable and renewable energy use, varying energy sources and environmental building techniques. I am also interested in travelling and possibly teaching in another part of the world.
I have used these inspirational words from Ella Wheeler Wilcox as my guide for my life and my new horizons, "Tis the set of the sails, and not the direction of the gales, that determines the way we go.".
Shirley Jones - 2009
Shirley was born and educated in Calgary. She received her B.Sc, B.Ed, Ed. Dip, M.Ed all from U of C. She taught for Foothills School Division for 37 years, teaching grades from kindergarten to grade 9 and mentored high school students while they studied through distant learning. She finished her career teaching for the Cayley Hutterite colony. It was there in 2001, she won an Excellence in Teaching Award. She also celebrated the graduation of two Cayley Colony girls, who were the first students from an Alberta colony and a colony school to write provincial diploma exams and graduate from high school. One more student graduated during Shirley's tenure.
Shirley volunteered 35 of the 37 years to the Foothills Local ATA. She held many positions including: president, secretary, NSC/EPC chair, and she ended her work with the ATA as a convention board representative. She also held position on provincial ATA committees: Long Range Planning committee and Teacher Education and Certification Committee.
In her retirement, Shirley is enjoying travel, and volunteers for the Jamaican Club. Close to home, she enjoys doing crafts and also gardens. Shirley has taken up golf and enjoys spending time with her good friend and companion Spencer. She is a good friend to many.
Shirley was born and educated in Calgary. She received her B.Sc, B.Ed, Ed. Dip, M.Ed all from U of C. She taught for Foothills School Division for 37 years, teaching grades from kindergarten to grade 9 and mentored high school students while they studied through distant learning. She finished her career teaching for the Cayley Hutterite colony. It was there in 2001, she won an Excellence in Teaching Award. She also celebrated the graduation of two Cayley Colony girls, who were the first students from an Alberta colony and a colony school to write provincial diploma exams and graduate from high school. One more student graduated during Shirley's tenure.
Shirley volunteered 35 of the 37 years to the Foothills Local ATA. She held many positions including: president, secretary, NSC/EPC chair, and she ended her work with the ATA as a convention board representative. She also held position on provincial ATA committees: Long Range Planning committee and Teacher Education and Certification Committee.
In her retirement, Shirley is enjoying travel, and volunteers for the Jamaican Club. Close to home, she enjoys doing crafts and also gardens. Shirley has taken up golf and enjoys spending time with her good friend and companion Spencer. She is a good friend to many.
Lynn Brooks - 2008
Local: Palliser (North)
Some of Lynn's Noteworthy Contributions:
Served many years on ATA Local Council
ARA Delegate
Leader in her District
Served on the Palliser Convention Board
Excellent ATA Supporter
Lynn is now retired after 31 years of teaching. She began teaching for Rocky View at Airdrie and later in Kathryn. She taught for 1 year at Turner Valley with Foothills and the rest of her career was with the County of Vulcan which then became Palliser. She has held an ATA position each year of her career and is still the secretary of the Palliser Local #19. She was a Convention Board Rep for Vulcan County for 11 years. During that time she served as Secretary, Evaluations, Vice-president and President. Her husband became ill at the same time that Vulcan amalgamated with the County of Lethbridge to become Palliser. She was not too sure which convention she would be able to attend (SWATCA or Palliser) and that, coupled with her husband's severe illness, led to her reluctant resignation from the Palliser Convention Board. Currently she is the Program Coordinator for Vulcan Victim Services.
Local: Palliser (North)
Some of Lynn's Noteworthy Contributions:
Served many years on ATA Local Council
ARA Delegate
Leader in her District
Served on the Palliser Convention Board
Excellent ATA Supporter
Lynn is now retired after 31 years of teaching. She began teaching for Rocky View at Airdrie and later in Kathryn. She taught for 1 year at Turner Valley with Foothills and the rest of her career was with the County of Vulcan which then became Palliser. She has held an ATA position each year of her career and is still the secretary of the Palliser Local #19. She was a Convention Board Rep for Vulcan County for 11 years. During that time she served as Secretary, Evaluations, Vice-president and President. Her husband became ill at the same time that Vulcan amalgamated with the County of Lethbridge to become Palliser. She was not too sure which convention she would be able to attend (SWATCA or Palliser) and that, coupled with her husband's severe illness, led to her reluctant resignation from the Palliser Convention Board. Currently she is the Program Coordinator for Vulcan Victim Services.
Brian Gancheff - 2007
Professional History:
Graduate University of Calgary 1972
Began teaching career at Exshaw School 1972-74 Gr.9
Joined staff at Airdrie Elementary-Junior High 1974. Taught Gr. 9 and was on elem/junior high physical education team.
Assigned A.P. Kathryn School February 1977.
Served as Acting P. in 1978
Assigned as A.P. at the opening of Muriel Clayton in 1979
Assigned as P at Crossfield Elem/Junior in 1981
Assigned as P at Indus School in 1982
Assigned Interim P at Elizabeth Barrett in 1989
Assigned P at R.J. Hawkey in 1991
Assigned P at Conrich in 1998
Assigned P at opening of Prairie Waters in 2002
Retired in 2004
ATA History:
Served on EPC and Convention Committees in Exshaw in 1973.
Served at the local level on EPC, Social, Advisory, and Scholarship and Convention committees from 1976 to 1998 during my 30 years as a member of the Rocky View Local.
On the Convention Board I served as a member at large for 3 years, Asst. Display Chair for 1 year, Displays Chair for 5 years, President a year and Past President for two years.
Specific years: see note above, but I believe the following is close:
1981-84 member at large
1984 assistant Display Chair
1985-89 Display Chair
1990 President
1991-1992 Past President
Time serving on the Convention Committee is the most vivid involvement in my professional life. The time spent with fellow colleagues at the Convention as well as the involvement in making this occasion as meaningful for everyone as possible was a real treat. I forged many other friendships with the display representatives and continue to enjoy many of these still. Unfortunately some have passed away and the memories of the times I spent with them will always be special.
Professional History:
Graduate University of Calgary 1972
Began teaching career at Exshaw School 1972-74 Gr.9
Joined staff at Airdrie Elementary-Junior High 1974. Taught Gr. 9 and was on elem/junior high physical education team.
Assigned A.P. Kathryn School February 1977.
Served as Acting P. in 1978
Assigned as A.P. at the opening of Muriel Clayton in 1979
Assigned as P at Crossfield Elem/Junior in 1981
Assigned as P at Indus School in 1982
Assigned Interim P at Elizabeth Barrett in 1989
Assigned P at R.J. Hawkey in 1991
Assigned P at Conrich in 1998
Assigned P at opening of Prairie Waters in 2002
Retired in 2004
ATA History:
Served on EPC and Convention Committees in Exshaw in 1973.
Served at the local level on EPC, Social, Advisory, and Scholarship and Convention committees from 1976 to 1998 during my 30 years as a member of the Rocky View Local.
On the Convention Board I served as a member at large for 3 years, Asst. Display Chair for 1 year, Displays Chair for 5 years, President a year and Past President for two years.
Specific years: see note above, but I believe the following is close:
1981-84 member at large
1984 assistant Display Chair
1985-89 Display Chair
1990 President
1991-1992 Past President
Time serving on the Convention Committee is the most vivid involvement in my professional life. The time spent with fellow colleagues at the Convention as well as the involvement in making this occasion as meaningful for everyone as possible was a real treat. I forged many other friendships with the display representatives and continue to enjoy many of these still. Unfortunately some have passed away and the memories of the times I spent with them will always be special.
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