Alexis Kotronis, first-year teacher and Edwin Parr Teacher Award nominee, Davidson Creek Elementary
Sherwood Park, AB. — First-year teachers already adapt to fast-paced school environments, detailed lesson planning and classroom management. Then add supporting extracurriculars, developing unique class projects and achieving school goals. Well-rounded Alexis Kotronis is a first-year teacher who does this and more, exemplifying what it means to go above and beyond for student growth and success.
Kotronis, who teaches Grade 6 at Davidson Creek Elementary and is an Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) alumna, has been selected as the Division’s nominee for this year’s Edwin Parr Teacher Award. The award is given by the Alberta School Boards Association to recognize excellence among first-year teachers. Kotronis’s nomination highlighted her exceptional extracurricular involvement, inclusive teaching practices and positive relationship-building with the entire school community.
“I start off the year building a relationship with every student in my class. I learn what subjects they’re most comfortable with and what their interests are. I also create a foundation of respect between myself and the class while helping them foster this between each other. I want everyone to feel safe, supported and know they belong.”
Kotronis organized a volleyball tournament involving six schools and runs the badminton club at Davidson Creek. “Sports have been a part of my life since I went to school—I’ve played, coached and now I get to support the students I teach. When I attend their games and cheer them on, sports become another way I can connect with them.”
She’s also in charge of the school’s AMA Safety Patrol. “Seeing students take on the responsibility of keeping their peers safe is fantastic. It’s a motivation booster for them and it’s been another way for me to get to know students. My comfort zone is athletics, so getting to lead this has been a welcome change of pace.”
Kotronis always considers the diverse needs of students. She’s put particular emphasis on incorporating First Nations, Métis and Inuit perspectives into her teaching. She implements sharing circles and delves into oral traditions and land literacy in her classroom, respecting and honouring the histories, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
“Alexis is not only an exceptional educator but also a champion of inclusive education,” says Helene Hewitt, the principal at Davidson Creek Elementary. “Through her unwavering commitment to creating a welcoming and respectful learning environment, she ensures that every student, regardless of their background or individual needs, can thrive. Her dedication to fostering equity, embracing diversity and promoting positive student experiences sets a remarkable example for those inside and outside of the classroom.”
Congratulations to Alexis Kotronis on her nomination as EIPS’ Edwin Parr Award nominee and thank you to all first-year teachers within EIPS for their dedication and contributions throughout the past year.
“I want to help students, the way my teachers helped me,” adds Kotronis. “They made me want to show up every day and left a positive and lasting impact on my life. I’m so grateful for this nomination and can’t wait to continue growing and improving as a teacher.”
Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,750 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.
RELATED INFORMATION
Alberta School Boards Association Awards
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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902