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Red Deer Public Schools Edwin Parr nominee inspired by students

Jennifer Howitt is a first-year teacher at École Barrie Wilson Elementary
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Red Deer teacher Jennifer Howitt found a passion for teaching later in life but has made up for lost time.

Before she became a teacher, Howitt worked as an administrative assistant and human services specialist in the oilfield. The first-year Grade 2 teacher at École Barrie Wilson Elementary now finds inspiration in the classroom by teaching and building relationships with students.

Her dedication was recognized by being named Red Deer Public Schools nominee for the Edwin Parr Teacher Award.

Each year, the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) honours six outstanding first-year teachers with the Edwin Parr Teacher Award. School boards may nominate any first-year Kindergarten to Grade 12 teacher who has taught in an Alberta school jurisdiction that is a member of the ASBA.

Howitt said she is humbled and honoured to be nominated.

“Every day I love coming to work to spend the day growing and learning alongside my students. This award means the world to me to be celebrated for something that brings me such joy,” she said.

“As a former student of Red Deer Public Schools, being able to pursue my career goals in this division where I grew up is even more satisfying.”

Howitt credits friends who work in education for opening the door to the classroom, as they encouraged her to apply for a job in a school.

“Ever since I stepped foot in a school, this is where I belong,” she said, adding that being an older student going back to college and university was extremely nerve-wracking.

“I doubted that I could even do school again, or that I would academically be able to do university classes. It took my husband Cody telling me that I could do it. He was there to help and push me when I didn’t have faith in myself or when I wanted to quit.”

Last July, Howitt taught in the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools’ Reading College program, which helps Grade 2 students who are struggling readers become readers of potential. She said the experience helped to set her up for success.

“The joy from the kids is what inspires me the most,” she said. “To see the spark when they understand something you’re teaching them, the ‘I love yous’ and the notes saying ‘I wish you would be my teacher forever’ are just so special.”

École Barrie Wilson principal Colette Pedde, said Howitt stood out from the moment she was interviewed for the job.

“She has a passion for teaching that lights up her classroom daily,” she said. “Her depth of understanding provides a unique perspective allowing her to relate to the vast needs of our students and the greater community.

“Her perspective is so valued when we discuss programming and student needs. Jennifer is adored by her students and a very strong member of her grade team and entire school staff.”



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