Deciding what to write for this year’s final Off Script has been challenging, especially given the year teachers and school leaders have just experienced. How do I convey the mix of anger and hope, disappointment and pride, while both reflecting on the past and looking toward the future?
As I think about this tumultuous year, one theme stands out: the power of community.
Last October, teachers, parents, students and public supporters stood together for three remarkable weeks and told the government that the chronic underfunding of public education was no longer acceptable. Even after the strike was ended by the highly problematic Bill 2, the Back to School Act, our teaching community remained resilient. Teachers should be proud of the stand they took. While the outcome left many feeling angry and disappointed, the strike made a real difference. It influenced political decisions, shifted public opinion and reasserted the collective voice of teachers—a voice that will not be silenced.
I was also reminded of the importance of community when I hosted presidents from teachers’ organizations across Canada earlier this month. While Alberta’s circumstances are unique, many of the challenges we face—such as funding pressures, class size, classroom complexity and violence in schools—are shared across the country. There is comfort in knowing we are not alone. Sometimes this work can feel isolating, but those conversations reinforced that leaders in education across the country remain committed to supporting their members, their students and public education.
Community also revealed itself in a more personal way this spring.
In May, I attended the celebration of life for my former colleague Mike Gibson, who passed away suddenly. Mike and I taught together for 14 years, and his loss is deeply felt by many. At the service, I saw colleagues with whom I had not connected in years. As I listened to the stories shared, I was struck by the community that had gathered around Mike and his family. Colleagues, students, friends and relatives came together to honour a life that touched so many others. Mike loved teaching, and that love was evident throughout the afternoon. We laughed, cried and shared memories of a colleague gone too soon.
Driving home, I reflected on the year—the struggles, the small moments of joy, the losses and the lessons—and was left feeling grateful to be part of this teaching community.
This year has been difficult, both professionally and personally, for many of us. As summer approaches, I hope you find the rest you deserve. Be protective of your time and generous with yourself. There is still important work ahead, but as this year has shown us time and again, we are strongest when we face it together.
