Highland Park Elementary School
In January 2021, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to volunteer in the class of Katie Gordon and Mia Herault in their Kindergarten class at Highland Park Elementary in Armstrong. I also accompanied Mia to her grade 1/2 classes on occasion. During this time, I was able to observe Katie and Mia who are both young teachers which was very beneficial to see their teaching styles. I was able to assist in both one on one work as well as small group work. Both Mia and Katie took the time to walk me through their classroom set up each day and explained how they build their schedules so it works to the benefit of the students. I also had the opportunity to work with a student in the bridge program which focuses on nurturing students who learn and function at a different pace than their peers. I observed and at times assisted Ms. Herault and Mrs. Gordon in their efforts to navigate behavioural issues with students.
Pleasant Valley Secondary School
In December of 2020, I had the privilege of spending a full week at Pleasant Valley Secondary School as a volunteer with Janet Gillis, who is a veteran teacher in the school district. During my week at PVSS, I worked with both grade 10 students in their French class as well as grade 12 students in a Career Life Connections class. I was fortunate enough to work closely with both groups of students on projects and assignments. I assisted Janet in teaching lessons as well as teaching a lesson unassisted to two grade 12 Career Life classes. During these classes, I gave a presentation on what students could expect when it comes to the university experience (presentation included below). Although this volunteer experience took place in a high school, this time was extremely beneficial for me to observe the differences between age groups from elementary to high school.
Salmon Arm Secondary Jackson
From November to December 2020, I volunteered with Krys Pick at Salmon Secondary Jackson. During my time with Krys, I worked in her grade 10 class and spent time observing her teaching methods. I assisted the students with group work assignments as well as one on one help when required. Krys often asked me to partake in her interactive lessons where I had the opportunity to answer questions from students. I also assisted Krys in her morning fitness class which was offered to students from grade 9 to 12. This included setup and demonstration of activities as well as offering extra help to students when needed.