City of Cranbrook- Playground Program Supervisor
As the Supervisor of the Playground Program, I led a team of five staff members and coordinated a dynamic summer program for children aged 5-12, with over 30 participants per day. I designed and facilitated engaging, educational activities, including community field trips, to ensure a fun, safe, and enriching experience for all attendees. To support positive behaviour and create an inclusive environment, I implemented a behaviour program inspired by Dr. Ross Greene’s Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, fostering a collaborative approach to conflict resolution and ensuring all children felt safe and supported. Additionally, I managed staff scheduling, coordinated field trips with community partners, and oversaw multiple activities tailored to different age groups simultaneously. This role honed my leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills, preparing me to effectively manage diverse classroom settings.
BC Hockey- Minor and Above Minor Official
As a Hockey Official, I have developed a deep passion for the game while ensuring fair play, safety, and sportsmanship at all levels. Officiating has allowed me to stay actively involved in the sport I love while building essential skills in decision-making, communication, and conflict resolution. Managing fast-paced gameplay requires me to think quickly under pressure, make fair and impartial calls, and effectively communicate rulings to players, coaches, and spectators. I take pride in maintaining professionalism, confidence, and composure, even in high-intensity situations. Beyond enforcing the rules, I strive to create a positive experience for all participants by promoting respect, teamwork, and integrity on the ice. Officiating has strengthened my ability to assess situations objectively, manage groups effectively, and maintain control in dynamic environments, skills that directly translate into managing a structured and supportive classroom setting.
School District #73- After School Sports and Arts Initiative
My role as a program leader and rapport builder in the ASSAI (After School Sports and Arts Initiative) has been instrumental in boosting my confidence as a future teacher. Planning weekly programs that are both engaging and enjoyable for students has challenged me to adopt a different leadership style. Working with students from an urban setting in Kamloops has been a significant adjustment from my experiences in my hometown, and I have undergone personal growth throughout this journey. In this role, I came to understand that my primary objective as an educator is not merely to be liked by students, but rather to provide them with a safe and supportive environment for learning while equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed. Initially, I struggled with discipline as I focused too much on being liked by the students. However, through experience and reflection, I gradually developed a more confident approach to classroom management. Despite facing challenges and experiencing trial and error, I eventually found my stride. The most validating moment came when a student, whom I had previously been particularly stern with, expressed in their final survey how much they felt cared for and valued by me as their teacher. This realization underscored the importance of being a teacher rather than just a friend to students. It reaffirmed my commitment to providing a nurturing yet structured learning environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally.
Regional District of East Kootenay- Communications Student
My role at the Regional District of East Kootenay as a communications student played a pivotal role in shaping my journey toward becoming an educator. In this position, I was tasked with educating the public about recycling programs in our area and promoting the importance of water conservation. I accomplished this through various activities such as setting up booths at farmers’ markets, participating in parades, leading field trips, and facilitating summer camp activities. This job provided me with invaluable experience in planning, creating, and implementing engaging and educational initiatives. The freedom to develop new and innovative activities and lessons allowed me to refine my skills in organizing and conveying information in ways that resonate with both students and adults. Through these experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of how to create meaningful and impactful educational experiences that inspire and empower others to take action.
BC Parks- Park Operator
Working as a Park Operator at BC Parks has been an incredible opportunity for me to expand my knowledge of the outdoors and to learn about responsible stewardship of the land. In this role, I have honed my interpersonal skills by engaging with hundreds of park guests daily. It has been essential for me to be well-versed in various aspects of the park, including wildlife, flora, fauna, and landscape, as well as the rules and regulations that visitors must adhere to. Enforcing park rules while maintaining a friendly demeanour has provided valuable practice for my future career as an educator. It has taught me the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution, skills that are essential in managing a classroom environment. Moreover, I am eager to share my passion for the outdoors and the knowledge I have gained with my future students, enriching their learning experiences with hands-on outdoor education.