Being an Educational Assistant

We Asked For Comments On Our Educational Assistant Program...

I always thought of myself as open-minded and accepting but you taught me that I had many stereotypes and was misinformed about people with disabilities. At first, I was embarrassed but you helped me see that it was just lack of information. Since taking this course I have been sharing all of this new information with family and friends. I want them to see what I can now see.
I'll never look at a person with a disability the same way again.
-E.A. Student 2003

Our distance education program allows for a wealth of knowledge to be shared by our diverse learners. Participation in our program has grown considerably in the last 5 years, from approximately 25 students to 175. The program has also grown beyond our Central Alberta community to outside Alberta's borders, including students located in British Columbia, the Territories, Ontario and Nova Scotia. Our ability to create a sense of community for our distance learners has led to a high level of student success.
-Shawna Schnick
 Instructor

I know as a Teacher Assistant that I make a difference in many students' lives. Being a part of a team that strives to discover new ways of teaching to the individual child is very humbling. I find that working with children that have disabilities is very challenging, but when they achieve success, nothing could be more rewarding.
-Sandy C. 
 Educational Assistant

I have gained a greater sense of compassion and understanding for individuals with disabilities and also for their families. I will bring all this knowledge with me when I start my career as a TA. I am so excited to go out there and make a difference. The difference may be telling someone about the importance of using person-first language, or the importance of full inclusion or how far society has come with the treatment of individuals with disabilities. But, most of all, I want to make a difference in a child's life.
-T.A. Student 2003