Janna MacLelland, first-year teacher and Edwin Parr Teacher Award nominee, Ardrossan Elementary

Sherwood Park, AB. — No matter the grade, first-year teachers conduct a symphony every day as they manage classrooms, plan lessons, mark assignments and more. Then, many teachers take these musical notes to a crescendo, as they organize extracurriculars, engage with families and create once-in-a-lifetime experiences to make their school the place to be for students.

French Immersion teacher Janna MacLelland has already made music in her school community during her first year of teaching. “There’s definitely been a big learning curve as a first-year teacher, but I’ve been incredibly lucky to have such a supportive team around me,” says MacLelland. “My seasoned grade partner and educational assistant have been amazing collaborators, helping me navigate my first year.”

MacLelland, who teaches kindergarten at Ardrossan Elementary and taught at the school for her practicum, 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.

MacLelland’s nomination highlighted her exemplary teaching practices, exceptional learning environment and creative activities to get students excited about school. “As a music minor, I love incorporating music and dance into our day whenever possible. Singing and movement have been powerful tools for language learning and building connections with my students,” says MacLelland. “I’ve also really enjoyed giving students the opportunity to share during intentional show-and-tells. Throughout the year, we’ve had a few different chances to incorporate French into these sharing times, and my students have absolutely loved it. It’s been such a valuable way for me to learn more about each of them, and even more rewarding to watch their confidence grow as they present in front of their classmates.”

MacLelland runs the dance club for students in grades 4-6. “It’s been one of the highlights of my year and such a fun way to connect with older students and allow them opportunities to share their passions. Seeing their excitement each week has been so rewarding! Creating a fun, welcoming space where students feel excited to learn is so important to me,” says MacLelland.

She’s also realized the importance of routines in her classroom for students, families and herself. “For young students, strong routines help build independence and comfort in the classroom. Especially in a French Immersion setting, routines provide a sense of security that allows students to focus on learning rather than wondering what comes next,” says MacLelland.

“I believe routines are just as important when it comes to the families in my classroom. That’s why I prioritize regular communication to keep families informed and involved in their child’s school experience. As a first-year teacher, I’ve also realized how important routines are for my own teaching practice! Many of the routines I started the year with have evolved as I’ve learned more about students and myself.”

Another first-year teacher that’s turned up the educational volume is Kyle Hagens at Strathcona Christian Academy Elementary. Hagens teaches Grade 5 at the school and was put forward as a suggested nominee for the Division, along with MacLelland. “I am deeply grateful to be in a place where I can embrace the immense responsibility of teaching with the support of dedicated peers,” says Hagens. “It’s a privilege to see students grow in their character and reap the rewards of their efforts. Kids bring genuine joy to the classroom and the world. This first year has been busy, trying, profoundly fun and I Iook forward to continuing to grow throughout my career.”

Congratulations to Janna MacLelland on her nomination as EIPS’ Edwin Parr Award nominee and thank you to Kyle Hagens and all first-year teachers within EIPS for their dedication and contributions throughout the past year.

“With every lesson I teach, I learn more about myself as a teacher and continue building my skills,” adds MacLelland. “While challenges are inevitable as a first-year teacher, I feel so passionate about this work, and that makes every hurdle worth it!”

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,950 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