Chinook’s Edge School Division welcomed 37 new teachers at its teacher orientation event this week.
The school division said in a statement that the three-day orientation and mentorship program involves teachers who are either new to the profession or new to the division, and is broadly considered to be one of the most extensive programs of its kind in Alberta.
The first day of school is Thursday.
Two of the new teachers are already well versed in Chinook’s Edge culture — Jessie Notley and Cali Wright.
They grew up together in Olds, attended all three Chinook’s Edge schools, and are now launching their teaching careers in the division at the same time.
“We’ve been linked since kindergarten - we played ball together, graduated together from École Olds High School in 2016, and took our undergrad degree at the same time at the University of Lethbridge,” said Cali, who has been working at École Deer Meadow in Olds since last semester.
“Now I’m teaching band back in my former school. Some of my own teachers are still there, so they’ve known me for a long time. I even taught my younger sister last spring.”
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Both teachers said they found it worthwhile to give up the last few days of summer to attend the session at division office.
“People are sharing their knowledge and resources, and everyone I meet is so willing to help,” said Jessie Notley, who will be teaching French at Cremona School.
“I’ve wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember, and I wanted to be a teacher in Chinook’s Edge.”
Jason Drent, associate superintendent of learning services, was impressed by the group of new teachers.
“These are skilled professionals and we can’t wait to see all the great things they are going to do to support our students,” Drent said.
“We connect all new teachers with a mentor for a full two years, so there is strong support and sharing of expertise throughout our schools. It ensures the best learning for all Chinook’s Edge students.”