The two chemistry teachers at East, Mrs. Heather Carlson and Dr. Tom Fox, have been recognized for displaying inspirational kindness. Whether that’s Mrs. Carlson greeting her prior and present students at the door, or seeing Dr. Fox’s smiling face in the hallways, they both embody Kabookie’s heart of kindness. “I want to make my students feel welcome and that even if they don’t understand something, it’s ok because they’re learning it for the first time,” Dr. Fox said. “I hope I inspire others with kindness by leading by example in my classroom, and creating a culture where I think kindness is valued,” Carlson adds. Both of these teachers’ ways of subtle leadership and confidence in their classrooms helps their students succeed and creates a positive and kind environment in our school. “I hope my students know that I respect them, and I hope we have a relationship based on mutual respect,” Carlson concluded.
Both prior Kabookie coin winners, Ms. Maggie Edison and Mrs. Jamie Stevenson, were recognised and voted by the school as embodying Jimmy Gerkin’s way of life. “I was very honored to have received the Kabookie coin last year. Being a teacher can be emotionally demanding, so it was nice to be recognized for this work” Stevenson said when acknowledging her award. Edison highlights the importance of kindness, in every aspect of life. “Kindness is extremely important especially in our school because it helps people feel like they belong and you never know in the world or even at our school what’s going on in somebody’s life,” Edison said. “I feel really lucky to be part of a school community that appreciates one another” Stevenson said.” It doesn’t cost anything to be kind,” Edison concluded.
Mr. Adam Horos and Mr. Tad Vandenrink. When the East Vision class was asked what teachers embodied the heart of EGR, these cheery teachers immediately came to mind. Whether that is Mr. Vaderbrink, and his intense school spirit, or Mr. Horos never failing to ask how my day has been at the door to his classroom, both are people that deserve to be recognized for their inspirational attitudes. “I think [kindness at school] makes people feel comfortable and like they belong which is important for people to feel” Horos said. “At school we want to build a sense of community, and we want to create a good atmosphere for learning, so being kind helps people feel like they can learn safely and that they belong to the class.” Horos said. “As a teacher, my goal is to connect with each student who walks into my classroom. I strive to make a meaningful impact, helping them feel valued and seen.” Vandebrink said.”While my love for history drives my desire for students to learn, the true reason I became a teacher is to guide and mentor students through the pivotal years of high school.” Vandenrink continued. Both of these teachers’ genuine passion for teaching helps create an environment of both kindness and acceptance in their classroom. “Kindness is the foundation of being a good person. I believe everyone at school—both students and staff—wants to be their best, which is where kindness plays a crucial role.” Vandenrink concluded.
