A Word From Your ATA Local President: 

Leo Richer

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of ATA Local 80, I would like to welcome you to a new school year and to wish you the best of success in your teaching endeavours.

Every month of August, it is interesting to note the excitement generated in stores and media concerning the start up of a new school year. Granted, one of our schools, St. Pat’s is already giving unit exams and such, but, for the vast majority, start-up is at the end of summer. Advertisements insinuate that parents are happy that their children will soon be in the care of teaching professionals. Certainly, over time, schools and teachers have had their responsibilities augment and the role of teachers appear to expand every year. However, despite the increasing tasks, one constant remains; our ability to impact and influence the future. The slogan at our ATA website states, “The future. It’s why teachers teach.”

At our yearly graduation ceremonies, our students fondly summon up the names of teachers who have influenced them. It always impresses me that these names are numerous and far-reaching. It starts with the kindergarten teachers all the way to their teachers from their last school term. We are in a position where we daily touch their minds and spirits. Our impact on their self-esteem is enormous. Since teachers are the cornerstone of the education system, our responsibilities are immense. I trust you will have a great year and that we will be good stewards of that responsibility.

God bless,

Léo Richer