The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) is pleased to welcome Amanda Freeman and Kim Zapesocki as the two newest executive staff officers. Both Freeman and Zapesocki will join the Teacher Employment Services program area this spring.
Freeman joins the ATA after serving as assistant principal with the Edmonton Public School Board. She began her career teaching in prekindergarten program unit funding (PUF) programs, kindergarten and Grade 1.
After 15 years teaching students in these programs, Freeman took on an administration role at Svend Hansen School, a large K–9 school. She holds a bachelor of education degree, as well as a master’s of education in curriculum and pedagogy.
Like Freeman, Zapesocki comes to the ATA after working in administration. Her most recent role included serving as an assistant principal, music teacher, librarian and Indigenous lead education teacher at Fort Saskatchewan Elementary School in the Elk Island Public School Division. Before beginning her teaching career, she completed a bachelor of music degree, followed by a bachelor of education degree. She also holds a master’s of education focused on leadership and Indigenous studies.
Though starting new roles with the ATA, Freeman and Zapesocki are not new to the ATA’s work.
Freeman’s experience with the ATA started with her volunteering as a school representative. She also served on her local’s negotiating subcommittee and teacher welfare committee (TWC). Freeman found herself becoming more involved and saw herself working at the ATA one day.
“Following my first TWC meeting I knew I wanted to one day work at the ATA,” she recalled.
For Freeman, her new role means having the chance to hear from and support teachers across the province.
“I am most excited about speaking with and learning the stories of teachers in parts of the province with which I am not yet familiar,” Freeman said. “I have not been north of Cold Lake before!”
Zapesocki has also been actively involved in the ATA, having served in local executive roles such as secretary, professional development chair, Diversity, Equity and Human Rights Committee chair and, most recently, as chair of her local’s Women in Leadership Committee. With this experience under her belt, Zapesocki looks forward to joining the ATA.
“My work with the local executive, combined with my administrative experience and teaching, developed my desire to work for and support teachers across Alberta,” Zapesocki said. “I’m excited to focus my efforts on supporting members so they can continue doing their best work in schools.”
Freeman will start her new role on May 1, while Zapesocki is set to join the ATA on April 7. ❚
5 more things about Amanda
What makes you the most excited to start working at the ATA?
Working alongside and learning from so many people I admire.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give yourself in your first year as a teacher?
Take every opportunity that comes your way; you never know where it will lead.
What is the greatest life lesson that teaching has taught you?
Teaching is meant to be messy and experienced in different ways. Let the students lead whenever possible.
Favourite song to put you in a good mood?
“This is Me” from The Greatest Showman.
Favourite activity/hobby/project on the go at home?
Visiting local coffee roasters with my husband, trying to find the perfect cup of coffee.
5 more things about Kim
What makes you the most excited to start working at the ATA?
Being an assistant principal has given me a deep understanding of and insight into both the amazing work happening in classrooms and the challenges faced, and I’m looking forward to bringing that experience to my new position, supporting members across the province.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give yourself in your first year as a teacher?
The ATA slogan “Teachers want what students need” is foundational to my approach and my “why.” It’s the reason I do this work. I encourage new teachers to know and be able to verbalize their values, their non-negotiables, their “why,” and to stay committed to their “True North.”
What is the greatest life lesson that teaching has taught you?
Prioritizing our time around our values and setting firm boundaries between our work and personal lives is essential for maintaining a healthy work–life balance and ensuring long-term career satisfaction and longevity.
Favourite song to put you in a good mood?
Garth Brooks’ “Ain’t Goin Down ‘til the Sun Comes Up.” And, if you ever find yourself at an ATA event, you just may find me at the karaoke area, singing a duet with past president Greg Jeffery!
Favourite activity/hobby/project on the go at home?
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me playing guitar, singing and songwriting. I’m also an avid non-fiction reader, as I love diving into books that cross my radar and pique my interest.
