Educational assistant program makes most of students' potential

A message from Edmonton Catholic Schools:

Bee Thompson didn't think she was going to graduate high school. The Edmonton Catholic Schools student finished Grade 10 with just 15 credits and was unsure about her future, until a teacher tapped into her potential and encouraged her to register for a dual-credit program that would change her life.

"If my teacher didn't say to me, 'Bee, I think you would be interested in this, I think you would be good at this,' I wouldn't have done it," said Thompson. "I wouldn't have thought about that because I wouldn't have allowed myself to think about that."

Throughout Bee's learning journey, she has worked with educational assistants and other support staff involved with the Teacher Assistant Behaviour Team and Enhanced Behavioural Support. Their support and encouragement helped spark a passion to give back and help others like herself.

"They showed me how important it is to lead with friendship and empathy rather than just academics when working with students."

Thompson registered for the Educational Assistant Dual Credit program, a fast-paced, condensed program offered in partnership with NorQuest College. In just one year, students gain real-world experience, develop valuable skills, and build confidence, all while earning high school and post-secondary credits at the same time.

Cassandra Anastacio is the Educational Assistant Dual Credit program teacher at Cardinal Collins Catholic Academic Centre – Clareview. She said the program is a game-changer and an opportunity to inspire students to chase their dreams and get a head start on their career. "It's just such an amazing opportunity, because within a year, they can be out working, supporting themselves, and having a full-time career."

And not only are these students getting this learning opportunity through Edmonton Catholic Schools, but in some cases, the division is hiring them too.

"Edmonton Catholic is investing money, time, resources into this program," said Anastacio. "The goal is that they can work in our schools and continue that big family of Edmonton Catholic Schools."

Bee is excited to complete this program and step into a rewarding career that is in high demand. "They (ECSD) want to support me in my learning because we need EAss and we need the supports."

For more on Bee's story and the Educational Assistant Dual Credit Program, watch this video.