Former student shines a light on teachers who inspire

Teachers made a lasting impact on Carly Miller. So, when Alberta teachers began strike action on Oct. 6, Miller—who graduated from St. Albert Catholic High School in 2015—decided to act to show her support.

“I feel that sometimes social media is used in negative ways,” Miller said. “I wanted to use it in a positive way, to spread joy!”

She promised herself she would post on Instagram every day of the strike, highlighting teachers she knows and celebrating the important work they do and the difference they make to their students.

“I have global developmental delays, and support from teachers and educational assistants helped me to be the happy, involved, independent person I am today,” she said. “Teachers make a big difference every day, and I wanted to shine a light on that.”

One post features an interview with one of Miller’s former teachers, Jody Sekundiak. The write-up not only gave Sekundiak a chance to share why she loves teaching, it also became a place of connection, as others joined in to post their own kind comments and stories about the teacher.

The experience has been meaningful for both teacher and former student. Sekundiak said she has been touched by the messages of appreciation, encouragement and support for Alberta teachers that Miller’s posts have inspired.

“It is so inspiring how Carly always finds a way to engage with her community and bring connection and joy to those around her,” Sekundiak said. “Carly’s campaign has truly uplifted teachers and brought awareness during this challenging time.”

For Miller, the response has been just as rewarding. She has received encouraging feedback on her posts and is grateful to see them bringing positive attention to teachers when they need it most.

“Teachers don’t think about themselves. They think about their students and their families,” she said. “I think that the teachers’ strike is really about making things better for students.”

Ultimately, Miller believes the strike reflects teachers’ deep and ongoing commitment to their students and their profession.

“Day to day, year to year, teachers see what’s happening in their classrooms,” she said. “That’s what is important; teachers are standing up to make things better for kids.”