Sadie Thompson Named 2014 Edwin Parr Award Nominee
Posted: April 14, 2014
Congratulations to Sadie Thompson, the 2014 Edwin Parr Award Nominee in the Holy Family Catholic Regional Division No. 37 (HFCRD). This nomination is awarded annually to one first-year teacher in each school division who demonstrates exemplary teaching skills in the classroom. Thompson, a grade 4 teacher who began teaching at Good Shepherd School in Peace River, attributes her success to her positive and proactive classroom management skills. She says these skills have resulted in more engaging lessons and increased one-on-one time with students.
When asked about her nomination, Thompson shared her excitement. “I can’t believe I was picked. I am so honoured to be nominated.”
One of her many successful classroom activities is called The Daily 5 in her Language Arts classes. This activity gives her students the opportunity to practice 5 different independent-learning activities centered around writing and reading. During that time, Thompson can work one-on-one with her students. She says this one-on-one time gives her time to identify each student’s needs so she can address them individually.
“Sadie shows incredible patience in the classroom and treats her students with such respect. She knows each of her students’ learning styles and adapts her teaching style to meet the needs of each learner,” said Good Shepherd School Principal Sandra Ciurysek, who nominated Thompson for the award. “Her teaching skills are at a level beyond her years. We are very lucky to have her on staff.”
Thompson attended Good Shepherd and Glenmary Schools and went on to graduate from the University of Alberta in 2013, earning her Bachelor of Education, specializing in Elementary Education. Thompson returned to Peace River with her husband to work at Good Shepherd School and to be closer to family.
Thompson says her favourite part of teaching is watching the changes in students as they progress throughout the year. For example, she says one student’s reading improved greatly in a short time. She says, “it proved that they are really learning. It felt so great.” Thompson is also very involved in the school through student council, the music ministry team and the staff social committee.