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Every week we celebrate SMCDSB staff members who have been recognized by a parent, student or colleague.
This week we are celebrating Courtney Densmore and
Danielle Attard, educational assistants at St. John Paul II Catholic School. Courtney and Danielle were nominated by a colleague who said:
“Danielle (Ms. A) and Courtney (Ms. D) dedicate themselves to listening to each and every student in their kindergarten class. With 25 students in a small space, inconsistent staffing throughout the year and behavioural needs at all time highs, I cannot imagine the classroom without their supportive, positive and irreplaceable support. Together they form a team where laughter gets them through the challenging moments and watchful eyes unifies them in supporting students in developing their social emotional skills. Danielle and Courtney were placed in a classroom that was spinning every day and they took the challenge and ran with it from day one. They operate with a shared mindset, keeping expectations clear for students. Their ability to communicate clearly with other members of the school staff will be a key pillar in creating successful plans to transition the students into their classes next year. The responsibilities documented in an EA job description are clear: support students, but Courtney and Danielle take it to a whole new level as they treat students as their own, working with everyone in the class to celebrate success big and small, overcome hurdles and navigate the challenging moments frequently encountered with 4 and 5 year olds. I can confidently say that I would be overjoyed to be able to stay on a team with these two wonderful women for the rest of my career in education. They are remarkable, irreplaceable and create the very definition of everything I believe a "dream team" would be.”
This week we are also celebrating Alannah Kelly, a teacher at St. Paul’s Catholic School. Alannah was nominated by a parent, who said:
“Ms. Kelly is a phenomenal educator. She is consistently devoted to her students year after year. She communicates exceptionally well with parents via multiple channels. Her educational programming is rich and authentic. She works seamlessly alongside her DECE partner (who is also amazing!). Two of my children have now had the pleasure of being in her kindergarten class and making fond memories that I know will last for many years to come.”
We would like to thank Courtney, Danielle, and Alannah for their commitment to Catholic education at our board.