Rachel Mitchell has been working at the University College of the North (UCN) for six years now, as an instructor at the UCN Adult Learning Centre (ALC). ALC offers students the opportunity to obtain a high school diploma and take different courses to better their skills or learn English.
Mitchell didn’t always want to be a teacher, and stumbled into it by mistake. “I went in as a working parent needing to provide for my family, and it seemed like a good schedule. Once in, who knew I would really like it? I love it.”
Mitchell is one of eight winners for the 2014-15 Manitoba’s Celebration of Excellence in Teaching Minister’s Award. “This prestigious award recognizes outstanding educators who work tirelessly to inspire their students and instill a lifelong love of learning,” explained the honourable James Allum in a May 1 press release.
The nomination for Mitchell came through her students and peers, and to her, this award is the feedback letting her know she’s doing her job. “I’ve been lucky, as most of my career has been with adult students. Students as adults don’t wait to let you know how you’re doing, I get feedback directly all the time in the classroom. It’s certainly an honour to have the feedback, as I try to do everything I can do to make the classroom work.”
Mitchell has been selected in the senior years category by a jury of representatives from the Manitoba School Boards Association, the Manitoba Federation of Independent Schools, the Manitoba Association of Parent Councils and the Manitoba Department of Education and Advanced Learning.
The Thompson teacher attended an award ceremony May 1 at the legislative building in Winnipeg, with her family, friends and director Rita Emerson. Mitchell thanked Emerson for being the one to spearhead this award, and making sure deadlines were met.
Mitchell received a letter of recognition as well as $500. The award is looking for the perfect spot to be hung, says Mitchell, but for her, the most important part of this is getting the word out about the ALC program. “We’re the only one with this in Thompson. I would love it to grow, and these adults are the comeback adults. They’re a vital resource, and they’re ready to get out, and contribute. We need to support programs like this. These are future employees, let’s get them out of minimum wage, and get them into a career.”
