From reflection to action

Teachers create scholarship to support diversity in education

We can’t force people to become teachers. This statement from a visiting professor struck a chord with Tia Myrick, English department head at Edmonton’s Archbishop O’Leary School. 

The professor was an advocate for equity and social justice who had come to speak about the importance of students seeing themselves reflected in the teaching staff. 
Her observation about the lack of diversity among teachers got Myrick thinking.

How could we make education feel more welcoming? Could we raise awareness and open doors for our own students? Maybe even offer a scholarship? An idea was beginning to take shape. 

Myrick recruited colleague Akua Kankam and, in collaboration with students, they established the Diversity in Education Scholarship, which supports an Archbishop O’Leary student of colour who plans to pursue post-secondary studies in education. 
The scholarship granted its first award in 2024. The award is made even more meaningful by the fact that it’s partially funded by students themselves through the school’s annual Cultural Day.

The kids are creating the opportunity for one of their own to become a teacher.

“The kids are creating the opportunity for one of their own to become a teacher,” says Myrick.

The first recipient is already on her path to becoming an elementary teacher, and there’s hope that the scholarship will inspire more students of colour to see teaching as a career.

Having worked alongside students to bring this initiative to life, Myrick and Kankam offer the following reflections for other teachers and school leaders seeking to support diversity, equity and inclusion in their own school communities:

Foster safe spaces and opportunities for students to shine 

• When students feel heard and valued, they are empowered to lead and contribute meaningfully.

Engage the broader school community 

• Conversations about race can be uncomfortable, but proactively addressing concerns helps build trust and collective purpose.

Build shared understanding 

• Offering context, resources and accessible language (e.g., a glossary of key terms) supports a collaborative learning journey for all.

Driven by students and supported by their teachers, this scholarship represents 
one step—but a powerful one—toward greater equity and representation in education.