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(Chinook's Edge School Division)
first-year educators

Bowden Grandview School teacher wins Edwin Parr Award

May 27, 2023 | 11:33 AM

A Chinook’s Edge School Division teacher is the recipient of the Zone 4 Edwin Parr Award.

Annually, teachers from each school division are nominated for the award in their provincial school zone. The award, which celebrates exceptional first-year teachers, is named after Edwin Parr, former president of the Alberta School Trustees’ Association. Parr established the award during his tenure from 1956-62, and it was later named in his memory.

For Zone 4 this year, Amy Severtson, who teaches at Bowden Grandview School, is the recipient.

She was chosen from a slate of eight nominees representing school divisions in central Alberta.

“I would like to thank everybody involved in Chinook’s Edge School Division for the time and effort they put into supporting first-year teachers. To my fellow teachers, administrators, and support staff at Bowden Grandview School thank you for your continued support,” says Severtson.

“I feel very fortunate to begin my career in a K-12 school. Going to work everyday, teaching, guiding, and learning alongside my students has truly been the most rewarding experience. I look forward to continuing teaching in my rural community. Also, thank you to Chinook’s Edge for nominating me and to the Edwin Parr selection committee. The nomination and award are a tremendous honour.”

Severtson herself is a graduate of Chinook’s Edge School Division.

“Amy approaches her teaching experience with the energy, enthusiasm, determination and passion to learn of a first year teacher but also with the patience and wisdom of a 15 year veteran,” says Jeff Thompson, Principal, Bowden Grandview School.

“Her ability to connect at a deep and personal level with her students has created a trust in her that allows her students to take risks and push themselves academically as well as socially. This award is well-deserved and we are thrilled for Amy.”

Severtson, along with five other winners from around the province, will be recognized at a future ASBA event.