LAKELAND – The careers of Lakeland Catholic School Division (LCSD) staff members were acknowledged for both those new to the teaching profession and to those who have dedicated their professional lives to the well-being and education of youth, Nov. 1.
A Long Service Awards Ceremony took place over the lunch hour at Assumption Jr/Sr High during a teachers' professional development day to recognize teachers and division staff that hit service milestones.
The ceremony also included heartfelt goodbyes to five staff members transitioning into retirement and the exciting introductions of 11 new teachers officially entering the profession of teaching with Lakeland Catholic. The brand-new teachers were formally inducted into the Alberta Teachers Association (ATA) in front of their peers.
“We welcome you into a profession that is both honourable and worthy of your respect in its traditions and ideals,” said Lynné Vining, president of Lakeland Catholic ATA local 30.
The inductee ceremony has two main purposes, to present an opportunity for new teachers to pledge their commitment to the profession, and to give those already in the profession an opportunity to welcome new teachers.
“Although its rewards are intangible, they are indeed gratifying. They come from the relationships that you will develop with your students, from the respect of the school community and beyond, and from the collegial ties with your colleagues. They come from the opportunities that await you to enhance, enlighten and inspire those in your care. They come from the realization that you are helping shape future leaders,” continued Vining.
Speaking to Lakeland Catholic’s newest teaching staff, she said, “It is a solemn occasion, one which underscores the responsibilities you are undertaking as you accept membership within the profession.”
Following the excitement of new teachers taking the first steps in their professional journeys, those who came long before were recognized for their contributions to the division.
Those acknowledged served the divisions from 15 years up to 40 years.
Jackie Miller from École Notre Dame Elementary and Micheal Cramer from St. Dominic Elementary have each served the division for 15 years to date. Lorraine Hawkins has provided 40 years of service to Lakeland Catholic.
These individuals continue to serve Lakeland Catholic.
Saying farewell
The ceremony also marked the end of five LCSD members’ journey with the division and the teaching profession as they begin their next chapters into retirement.
Despite the sadness of saying farewell, old jokes and long-standing stories were shared of the retirees, whether they were present or already enjoying their retirement on the beach.
LSCD members officially entering retirement include École Dr. Bernard Brosseau student assistant Vicky Van Brabant, Secretary Cheryl Schesnuk and teacher Tim Urlacher from Assumption Jr/Sr High, École Notre Dame Elementary teacher Bernadette Sharun, and St. Dominic Elementary secretary Margaret Froning.
Alberta Teacher Association Inductees
École Dr. Bernard Brosseau
Shyanne La Sorsa
École Notre Dame High School
Sofia Bouchard
Jason English
Light of Christ Catholic
Yannick Kouassi
Robert Lazar
Emily Venance
Assumption Jr/Sr High School
Sydney Kohl
Marianne MacDonald
Holy Cross Elementary
Tanis Beida
Cari Graus
Amanda MacNivan
