The start of the school year sees a new but familiar face in one of the top jobs at the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA). On September 1, Elissa Corsi will assume the associate executive secretary duties from retiring Joni Turville. Corsi will be working alongside Robert Mazzotta, who holds the other associate executive secretary position.
Corsi is excited about the challenges and opportunities her new role with the ATA presents.
“I know that the road ahead may not be straight and may not be easy,” said Corsi, “but I am confident that the Association and the teachers across the province will ensure that public education in Alberta remains accessible for all, is well funded and provides the necessary supports for both students and teachers.”
In 2002, Corsi began her teaching career with the Elk Island Public School Division at Ecole Elementaire Ardrossan Elementary School. Her keen interest in leadership led her to the roles of vice-principal, principal and then the second language coordinator at the division office.
In 2017 she joined the ATA as a staff officer in the Teacher Employment Services program area. A year later, she earned her doctor of education degree. While working at the ATA, Corsi was also an adjunct professor at the University of Alberta’s (U of A) Campus Saint-Jean and led what was to become its Graduate Educational Leadership Certificate program. She is fluent in four languages and has presented both nationally and internationally in English and French.
During her tenure with the ATA, Corsi has been a member of several high-profile committees, including Political Engagement and Women in Leadership. After moving to the Association’s Government program area, she had the opportunity to act as associate coordinator of communications and led that department through the Stand for Education campaign.
“I am passionate about public education,” said Corsi. “I envision a province where teachers are respected and ties within the Association and education subgroups are strengthened.”
One of Corsi’s proudest accomplishments is her work on a research project examining the topic of women at the intersections of gender in educational leadership. The study is nationally funded through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and is a partnership between the ATA, U of A and the College of Alberta School Superintendents.
Leadership in education has been a career-long passion for Corsi and she hopes to bring a unique perspective to her new position.
“For me, leadership is not just a title or role,” said Corsi. “It’s a way of being, a way of inspiring and working with others towards a common goal. It’s ensuring the Association remains the voice of teachers across this province.” ❚
