Submitted by Sherry Knull
WRPS
Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools (WRPS) is pleased to announce that David Shantz, a Pigeon Lake Regional School teacher, has been selected to represent WRPS as our 2016 Edwin Parr Teacher Award Nominee. The Edwin Parr Teacher Award recognizes first year teachers that demonstrate exemplary dedication and commitment in the field of Education.
“To be nominated for the Edwin Parr award is a great feeling. I was thrilled when Mr. Denney told me I was going to be nominated for the award,” stated David.
Mr. Shantz’s teaching assignment includes teaching grade seven; mathematics, science and physical education as well as senior high outdoor education and physical education 9. “Mr. Shantz has made a positive and immediate impact on the culture of our school,” said Principal Denney. “He is a passionate and innovative teacher that has an ability to connect with the students whether that is in the classroom through his engaging lessons or his involvement in coaching extra-curricular activities.”
When asked about being nominated, David responded, “At first I was very surprised that my administration thought I should be recognized. I did not feel that I was doing anything special or different than any of my colleagues. I feel that I would not have been able to achieve everything I have without the support of the administration and all my colleagues in our school. They have made me feel very welcome and did everything they could to help me teach to the best of my ability.”
David attained a Bachelor of Education Degree from Concordia University of Edmonton. When asked why he became a teacher David stated that, “As a child growing up, I always had very supportive teachers who showed me patience and went above and beyond to provide me with a well-rounded education. As I got older I really started to appreciate the work teachers do and realized the impact they can have on a child’s life. At the time of choosing a career I knew I wanted to do the same for other children.”
Each year, the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) honors outstanding first-year teachers representing six zones throughout the province. David will be recognized at the Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools board recognition night on May 13 and at the ASBA Zone 4 awards banquet held in Innisfail on May 30.
David is clearly a very qualified and deserving candidate for this award stated Barb Johnson, board chair. “The board congratulates David as the 2016 Edwin Parr Teacher Award nominee for the division and is inspired by his passion for teaching, we wish him the very best in the years to come.”