Lethbridge Herald

Williamson nominated for Edwin Parr award

- Garrett Simmons

Lethbridge School District 51 has its nominee for the 2018 Edwin Parr Teaching Award.

Sarah Williamson, a Grade 7 teacher at G.S. Lakie Middle School, will represent the district at the annual Zone 6 Edwin Parr banquet in May.

At Tuesday’s meeting, the board of trustees approved Williamson’s nomination, as the Lakie teacher will now compete with teachers from southweste­rn Alberta to become the Zone 6 Edwin Parr representa­tive.

“Sarah is an outstandin­g first-year teacher who has displayed commitment and flexibilit­y throughout her assignment this year,” said Lakie principal Sharon Mezei. “Her positive, caring and outgoing demeanour make her a magnet for students, and she has clearly built strong and respectful relationsh­ips with both students and staff.”

Williamson said her first year at Lakie has included a variety of experience­s, which has allowed her to interact with students in each grade.

“I am very fortunate to be teaching a wide range of subjects and students over the course of this year. I am on the Grade 7 team as an adviser, science and literacy teacher. In addition, I teach a range of additional courses that allow me to connect with students at the Grade 6 and 8 level as well. These include physical education, strength and conditioni­ng, leadership and sports enrichment. It is a pleasure to be a part of such a lively community here at Lakie.”

The first-year teacher is also coaching girls basketball at Lakie, along with badminton.

“Physical activity and living a healthy, balanced lifestyle has been a passion of mine for many years,” said Williamson. “It is a privilege to get to share my experience and enthusiasm for athletics with such talented young athletes.”

Outside the school environmen­t, Williamson added she can often be found outdoors.

“When I am not at the school or involved with a school-related event, you could find me enjoying the outdoors, painting or spending quality time with family and friends.

Mezei added Williamson has found many ways to make an impact at Lakie.

“Sarah has dedicated her time to providing engaging opportunit­ies in her programmin­g of science, literacy, physical education and various option courses. Sarah has also contribute­d to various cocurricul­ar activities. Her gift of time, both in and out of the classroom, has definitely made a difference in the lives of many students at G.S. Lakie.”

The Alberta School Board Associatio­n Edwin Parr Teacher Award aims to honour a first-year kindergart­en to Grade 12 teacher who has put in a minimum of 100 full-time equivalent days of teaching service within the current school year.

 ?? Submitted photo ?? At left is Lakie principal Sharon Mezei, posing for a photo with Sarah Williamson recently, outside the Lethbridge School District No. 51 Education Centre.
Submitted photo At left is Lakie principal Sharon Mezei, posing for a photo with Sarah Williamson recently, outside the Lethbridge School District No. 51 Education Centre.

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