November 4, 2014 – Deborah Gladue-McLeod, a graduate from the University of Alberta and Northern Lakes College Aboriginal Teacher Education Program (ATEP), is this year’s recipient of the Alberta School Boards Association Zone 1 Edwin Parr Teacher award. This prestigious award recognizes first-year teachers who have gone above and beyond their job expectations.
Deborah currently teaches grade one at St. Theresa School in Wabasca, where she worked part-time while she pursued her Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) through Northern Lakes College at the Wabasca campus.
Deborah credits her achievement to a host of different people. “I owe my success to my family, my friends, St. Theresa School staff, Northland School Division, Bigstone Education Department, OPK School and my ‘ATEP family’, the professors from the University of Alberta and the faculty and staff at Northern Lakes College,” she said.
The Aboriginal Teacher Education Program is offered jointly by Northern Lakes College and the University of Alberta. Students complete the first two years of their degree through University Studies at Northern Lakes College. Years three and four are taught by University of Alberta faculty at specified Northern Lakes College campuses. Upon completion of the program, students will receive their Bachelor of Education degree with a specialization in elementary education from the University of Alberta.
“The ATEP program worked for me because I was at home in my own community,” said Deborah. “My family, friends, and community support were key factors of my success. I built friendships with classmates and we now call it our ATEP family.”
Edwin Parr was a homesteader near Athabasca who was involved in education for much of his adult life. He instituted an annual teacher award in the Athabasca School Division. In keeping with his legacy, the Edwin Parr award today recognizes a first year teacher for their dedication to the career of teaching. Each school board in Alberta may nominate one candidate.
About Northern Lakes College
Northern Lakes College is a Comprehensive Community Institution offering certificate and diploma programs in Business, Health Sciences, Human Services, Technology, Trades, University Studies and Academic Upgrading. The College collaborates with Campus Alberta partners to offer degree completion opportunities throughout its service region, including a Bachelor of Education. Northern Lakes College also provides a wide variety of certificate programs through its Continuing Education and Corporate Training Department.
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