Hi everyone, it’s Joanne MacLean, president of UFV. It’s Tuesday, May 5, which is Thank a Teacher Day in some countries.
I like to take every opportunity I can to thank our educators, especially during this challenging time. Many of us have been shaped in important ways by the teachers in our lives and I’m no exception. My mom was an art teacher, and I was interested in what she did from my earliest memories. But I also vividly remember teachers and coaches who impacted my life throughout my formative years.
My Grade 4 teacher, Mrs. Liston, made learning exciting and fun; dramatic and engaging. She encouraged me to do my best, and engendered a love of reading, inquisitiveness, and social connection, that I’ve often thought has helped me to be doing what I do today. And, importantly, she believed in me and ensured that I knew it.
So, in honour of Mrs. Liston and all the educators in our lives: thank you. Thank you to our UFV faculty. You have made miracles happen this term, demonstrating who we are as a university. Thank you to our students in education — particularly those of you trying to finish practicum placements in a time of remote classes and physical distancing.
Thank you to our alumni teachers who have followed your calling to teach. And thanks to all our teachers in the Fraser Valley school districts and beyond. COVID-19 has reminded the world of the important work you are doing every day.
I also want to say thanks to all the parents out there. You have been asked to play a significant and unfamiliar role in your children’s education in a very disruptive time. You are truly important partners in lifelong learning.
Today is also a special edition of Giving Tuesday, the global movement for giving and volunteering that usually happens in November. Giving Tuesday Now is happening across Canada and around the world as an emergency response to COVID-19.
UFV is participating by asking our community members to consider supporting the UFV Emergency Student Fund. Donations will help our students who are affected by COVID-19 to afford rent, buy groceries, or pay for internet service to continue their studies. I’m observing both these events by making a donation in the name of my teacher, Mrs Liston. If any of you are in a position to do the same, you can make a donation online.
Thanks again everyone — education is truly a gift that unites us. The power of education will be transformational in our COVID-19 recovery. And recover we will!
Please take care. Be well, be kind, and be safe.