Gayle Peters, Educational Assistant, Glen Allan Elementary

Sherwood Park, AB. — On May 14, Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) students and staff are celebrating the Division’s Educational Assistant (EA) Appreciation Day to recognize the outstanding expertise, dedication and compassion of EAs divisionwide. “I’d say the most rewarding parts of being an EA would be watching the students learn and grow in so many ways as they go through elementary school,” says Gayle Peters, an EA at Glen Allan Elementary.  “It’s helping a struggling student learn strategies to be able to overcome the difficulty, and it’s knowing that even a little thing can make a huge difference to kids every day.”

Peters is a veteran EA, working with the Division for more than three decades. “When I started 35 years ago, we were still Strathcona County Public Schools, which later became EIPS,” says Peters. “It’s been quite a journey—during my time here, I’ve seen changes in philosophies, curriculum and technology, and my skills and ability have continued to adapt with the times. I’ve worked in specialized Division programs, regular classrooms with special needs students and in classrooms with students who just needed a little support.”

EAs play an integral role in education, fostering and building relationships with students to foster growth and achievement. From one-on-one student support to whole classroom dynamics, educational assistants are essential. “EAs are important to a school community because we’re the extra eyes and ears of teachers as they teach the curriculum,” says Peters. “We support both the teachers we work with and the students. I believe in public education, and I believe every child has a right to learn at their own pace. Having the support of EAs in the classroom can make a big difference in learning and mental health for all students.”

However, the contributions of EAs don’t stop at the classroom. “Sometimes we’re safe adults for students in our school community,” says Peters. “They know they can come to us for that one-on-one to get them through the day or a tough spot. Teamwork between school staff, students and their families make for a positive learning and growing experience for everyone.”

Peters has advice for those aspiring to become an EA or those newer to the position. “Get your EA certificate,” says Peters. “Never stop learning and be flexible! Diversify into many disciplines.  The more skills you have, the better you can do your job. Always give yourself and students grace to get through struggles, make connections with students and fellow staff, and become a team player for everyone’s benefit.”

EAs make an impact on school communities every day, and the results are exceptional. “Early on in my career, I was in a special education program, and we all worked together to get a student out of her wheelchair and walk on her own,” adds Peters. “It took years but the joy for everyone, especially the student, was life-changing.”

Thank you to EAs across EIPS for your support to ensure student growth and success!

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,950 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

RELATED INFORMATION
Life of an Educational Assistant at EIPS

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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902