From Survival Mode to Thriving as a Teacher

I’ve worn many hats in my lifetime: daughter, sister, wife, mother, student, and teacher. But the role that truly defined me and my resilience was that of a single mother juggling three children, university studies, and the relentless pursuit of a career. It was a journey marked by challenges, and triumphs where I often found myself in survival mode, fueled by sheer determination and endless cups of coffee. It was a high-stakes balancing act.

With a 4-year-old in Montessori and two pre-teens navigating their challenges, my days were a carefully choreographed ballet of school, homework, extracurricular activities, and stolen moments of study. The journey was challenging, filled with late nights and early mornings. The title "Drill Sergeant Major Mum" was bestowed upon me by my older children, a testament to the rigid schedule I imposed to keep our lives on track. Little did I know that this ability to organize and structure would become an invaluable asset in my teaching career.

The road that followed was a winding one, taking me from the substitute teacher circuit in British Columbia to the heart of a First Nations community in Northern Manitoba. These experiences, while challenging, shaped me into the educator I am today.

Fast forward to a career spanning two decades in Calgary, primarily focused on teaching mathematics in a diverse, urban setting. While navigating the complexities of classroom management and meeting the diverse needs of my students, I concurrently pursued further academic growth by completing a Master’s degree in Assessment and Leadership. This advanced degree deepened my understanding of educational theory and practice, equipping me with a broader perspective on student learning and classroom management.

I’ve learned that teaching is more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about building relationships, fostering growth, and inspiring young minds. I believe that by sharing my experiences and insights, I can empower other educators to overcome challenges, find joy in their profession, and create lasting impacts on their students’ lives.

This blog is my platform to share practical tips, personal stories, and strategies that have helped me navigate the complexities of teaching. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting out, I hope you’ll find value in my journey. Let’s work together to build a thriving teaching community.

Stay tuned for more!