By Ashley Legassic

North Thompson teacher recognized for dedication to community

Oct 10, 2018 | 11:32 AM

KAMLOOPS — A new teacher in a tiny North Thompson community has been recognized by the provincial government for her work.

Maymie Tegart was recognized as “outstanding new teacher” by Premier John Horgan on World Teacher Day.

“Maymie Tegart whole heartedly took on the responsibility of teaching a multi-grade classroom and connecting to the tiny North Thompson community of Blue River in 2016,” School District 73 says in a news release.

Tegart learned her students were an active group, used to dirt biking and snowmobiling, the release states, so she brought the learning outside and brought nature into the classroom by turning a spare classroom into a greenhouse.

The students started seeds for their garden, raised funds with their plants, and learned about life-cycles and pollinators through observation and hands-on learning.

“The district is extremely proud of the work Ms. Tegart has been doing in Blue River,” says Alison Sidow, school district superintendent. “Her passion for teaching and community involvement is inspirational and it’s wonderful to see the community come forward to nominate her — it’s clear she is making an incredible difference.”

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Despite being a newcomer to the community, Tegart played a key role in the rural school’s 100th anniversary last year by organizing and creating an event celebrating the school and the community. Tegart and her students worked together to come up with plans and activities for the day.

“When Maymie entered our small community of 250 souls, she brought with her new ideas, new energy, an enthusiasm for teaching and a love of educating children, which is apparent in her day to day activities,” parent Laura Lee Onslow says in the release. “She has the ability to connect with the community in ways that extend far beyond the walls of the classroom.”

Tegart was among nine winners of the inaugural Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education who were announced at a ceremony at Government House in Victoria on Oct. 5, 2018. Each winner was awarded a commemorative artwork, a $3,000 personal bursary for professional learning and a $2,000 contribution for their school community professional learning.

by Ashley Legassic

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North Thompson teacher recognized for dedication to community

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