Amanda Hawkins, Edwin Parr nominee
FORT McMURRAY — A Grade 6 teacher in Fort McMurray has been nominated for a provincial award recognizing outstanding first-year educators.
Amanda Hawkins, who teaches at Christina Gordon Public School, has been nominated by the Fort McMurray Public School Division for the Edwin Parr Teacher Award, presented annually by the Alberta School Boards Association.
The award, which has been given for nearly 60 years, honours first-year teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and a strong commitment to student development.
School officials say Hawkins has made an early impact through inclusive teaching practices and a focus on creating a supportive learning environment.
Principal Rick Thorne says Hawkins draws on her previous experience as a nurse and educational assistant to connect with students and build strong relationships within the classroom and broader school community.
He says her contributions extend beyond the classroom, including coaching basketball, organizing intramural sports and supporting students in community athletics.
The school division says Hawkins’ nomination reflects her commitment to student success and her ability to foster an environment where students feel valued and supported.
The Edwin Parr Teacher Award recognizes one first-year teacher from each Alberta school board, with a provincial winner selected from among those nominees.








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