Chinook’s Edge School Division adds 51 new teachers

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“We eagerly anticipate the positive contributions they will make to our culture and our shared dedication to student success. All educators are crucial in achieving this goal,” he said, in a media release. “We extend our sincere gratitude for their care and continued efforts on behalf of our students and school communities. We know these new members of the Chinook’s Edge team will contribute their unique skills and passions to this collective effort.”

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Chinook’s Edge has also welcomed a new associate superintendent of learning services, Chris Adamson.

Adamson said their was plenty of excitement at teacher orientation.

“It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm, and I’m proud of the structure and support our team provided to help them feel welcomed and prepared. I look forward to seeing these educators grow in their practice and the positive impact they will bring to our students and communities.”

New Grade 7 teacher at Hugh Sutherland School in Carstairs, Cole Weststrate is looking forward to starting his teaching career and forming relationships with the students.

“I want to be a support to them and hope to play a foundational role in their growth and success. I hope one day, they’ll look back and remember what they did in Mr. Weststrate’s class,” he added.

(Chinook’s Edge School Division/Supplied)

Weststrate graduated from Innisfail High School and the University of Calgary. He got into teaching after he was inspired by his mother Dawn, who retired in June after teaching in Chinook’s Edge.

“When we were out in the community, and students and families would come to talk with her, I could see what a difference she had made,” he said. “It is exciting to be following in her footsteps, but also nerve wracking because I have big shoes to fill. I am excited to forge my own path, and make a difference for the students in Carstairs.”

Kaitlyn Butt, who will be a Grade 5 teacher at Beacon Hill Elementary School this year, also grew up attending schools in the division.

She attended Benalto School, C.P. Blakely Elementary School, Ecole Fox Run School and H.J. Cody School, all in Sylvan Lake.

She went on to graduate in 2018.

“It feels like I am coming home. Teachers I knew as a student make Chinook’s Edge feel like a family,” Butt said.

(Chinook’s Edge School Division/Supplied)

After graduating from the University of Alberta, Butt taught a Grade 1 / 2 split class in Caroline last year.

“I like the environment in our schools. It’s friendly and welcoming,” she said. “Kids put a lot of trust in their teachers. I want them to feel safe and look forward to being at school. I am also excited to work with my colleagues.”