Two principals and a teacher join ATA staff

Spady has worked for Elk Island Public Schools for 23 years, gaining experience in elementary, junior and senior high schools in a variety of teaching and leadership roles, including a secondment to the division’s human resources department. He has been active in the ATA’s Council for School Leadership and was involved in the ATA’s Finland–Alberta partnership FINAL 2.0.

He said he’s grateful, excited and a little nervous to be joining ATA staff.

“Also, very sad to leave the school that I’m currently at ... shoutout to Fultonvale!” he said.

Holding bachelor’s degrees in education and kinesiology, Pino has taught grades 7 to 12 English language arts, science, biology and physical education in traditional and outreach schools and served as a learning coach and graduation coach. As a changemaker and advocate for inclusion, Pino has shared her lived experience as a queer person, participated in equity, diversity, inclusion and antiracism committee work, represented Alberta teachers in the Canadian Teachers’ Advisory Circle at the Museum of Human Rights, and facilitated workshops provincially and nationally.

Her Association roles include GSA co-chair, council of school representatives and executive liaison for member services. She has also represented members at the Annual Representative Assembly and attended Summer Conference. Pino also served as an Association instructor, providing professional development for teachers across the province.

“I feel incredibly honoured and excited to be appointed to the ATA staff,” she said. “I have always loved supporting other teachers, and having an opportunity like this to extend my reach across the province is amazing. I am very proud to take this next step in my career, and I cannot wait to begin working with such a talented and hardworking team to support our Association members.”

As principal of Stavely School, Watson brings a unique perspective informed by her rural teaching experience and a diverse background that includes professional coaching and presentations with the Alberta Assessment Consortium.

Watson holds bachelor’s degrees in science and education, and a master’s degree in education, focused on curriculum and assessment. She has taught at the elementary, junior high and senior high levels and served as an academic advisor.

Watson has also been a district school improvement coach, a contract presenter with the Alberta Assessment Consortium, and has led various professional development sessions with a focus on pedagogy and assessment. Her ATA involvement includes serving on the Women in Leadership Committee and the School Leaders Issues and Concerns Committee, reflecting her commitment to supporting educational leadership and advocacy.

She said she is thrilled to be joining ATA staff.

“Words really can’t explain my excitement,” she said. “My mission and vision align perfectly with the ATA’s commitment to supporting teachers, advocating for quality education, and enhancing the profession. This role is an opportunity to contribute to the ATA’s goals in a meaningful way, and I’m eager to support and inspire educators across the province.”