The Peace Wapiti Public School Division’s (PWPSD) Teacher Bursary Program, which began in the winter of 2023, is already showing a positive impact on staffing throughout the division.
Last spring, PWPSD announced eight successful bursary recipients, which was an increase from the five bursaries originally planned. This year, the Division is excited to award four more bursaries to future PWPSD teachers. Deputy Superintendent, Darren Young, says the program has been as successful as one could have hoped. “We have been fortunate with the quality of applications we’ve received. Last year we saw 20 applications from outstanding young people who will all make excellent teachers. This year we received 16 and were, once again, faced with the difficult task of choosing our winners.” Mr. Young adds the selection committee is happy to support aspiring new teachers from PWPSD communities.
PWPSD sends its congratulations to this year’s award recipients: Brooklyn Stedel, Natasha Boileau-Byrne, Mason McCurdy, and Jadeyn Lunn.
As part of PWPSD’s Teacher Bursary Program, successful applicants must sign a two-year Return of Service Agreement with the Division, which two of the 2024 award winners will begin this fall. Ms. Sierra Evans and Mrs. Jenny Keddie have both been placed in teaching positions, and will begin the 2025-2026 school year at Bonanza School and Whispering Ridge Community School (WRCS) respectively.
When asked how the PWPSD Teacher Bursary Program has impacted her journey, Ms. Sierra Evans says receiving the financial support was an incredible accomplishment. “Receiving this bursary meant I was able to complete my degree, ease the financial burden of school, and focus on my family while diving into my future as an educator.” She says she is looking forward to helping her students see themselves as successful learners and capable of overcoming struggles. Ms. Evans adds that she is truly ecstatic about returning to Bonanza School, where her passion to become an educator began.
Mrs. Jenny Keddie, who has been a member of the WRCS community in a variety of roles over the years, will begin her teaching career as a Grade 3 teacher. “Mrs. Keddie has been a WRCS parent, practicum student, Non-Certificated Classroom Supervisor, and now teacher, and we are thrilled to have her join our school in this new capacity,” says WRCS Principal, Mrs. Abby Stilwell. “She brings with her a passion for life-long learning, and strong community connections; she will do a tremendous job.”
The PWPSD Teacher Bursary Program is an annual program hosted by the Division. Applications are accepted between early December and mid-February, and award recipients are chosen by a selection committee in the spring. For additional information on the PWPSD Teacher Bursary Program please visit our website.