Two teachers at Glendale Sciences and Technology School have been recognized at a national level for their excellence in teaching.
Ashton Lutz, Learning Facilitator, is one of 10 teachers across Canada to be awarded the 2022 Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence, while Amy Mathison, Grade 7/8 Math Teacher, is one of 25 teachers across Canada to be awarded the 2022 Certificate of Achievement for Teaching Excellence.
Both teachers were nominated by the school’s Principal Sandre Bevan, and Vice Principal Jeff Plackner.
“I feel very honored and very grateful that I was nominated and selected for this award and that there is a belief in me by the people around me,” said Lutz, after learning she was a recipient. “I have a lot of gratitude and appreciation.”
In her new role as a Learning Facilitator, Lutz makes the connection between the Grade 2 curriculum and the daily lives of her students in order to fully engage each and every one of them. “What I really love about my role is that I get to connect with so many people and make a difference in so many lives,” she said. “When you come to school and a student has a great day, then you have a great day. I get to be a person in a child’s life that gets to make a true difference for them. It’s really rewarding.”
Mathison added she also feels honored to be recognized.
“I was not expecting this to happen. I was honored to be nominated out of the many teachers in our Division, and then to receive the recognition feels amazing,” she said. “My parents are both teachers, so they were really proud.”
Both intstructors added they enjoy teaching at a school with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).
“The role of science and technology is really important to engage learners and it’s really important that kids have that hands-on experience,” said Lutz. “With technology, I am able to pace instruction based on each student’s needs. For example, if a student is having trouble with a concept, they can get remediation at the same time that other students can move onto higher concepts.”
“The biggest thing about STEM learning is how engaged students are,” added Mathison. “They are getting deeper learning with STEM. They get to do 3D printing and laser cutting – which are some pretty unique learning opportunities, and we have so much fun with it.”
“The Board congratulates both Ashton and Amy on their national recognition,” said Board Chair Nicole Buchanan. “It is an honor for Red Deer Public to have dedicated and passionate teachers who go above and beyond every day for our students, ensuring there is excellence in teaching and learning in our classrooms.”