Lisa Ference nominated for Edwin Parr Award

St. Paul Education has announced their nominee for an outstanding teacher award.

Lisa Ference was chosen as the Board’s representative for the Zone 2/3 Edwin Parr Award which is presented annually by the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) to six exceptional first-year teachers from across the province. 

Each spring, Alberta school and division leadership select, nominate and recognize one outstanding teacher who will represent them at the zone awards ceremony.

Ference was nominated by Glen Avon School Principal Kandy Songer. “Lisa is a phenomenal first year teacher who stands out amongst those new to the profession. Her abilities as a teacher would usually be seen in someone who had many more years of experience,” said Songer in a press release. 

St. Paul Education says Ference has demonstrated excellent instructional strategies and skills, a remarkable ability to establish positive and meaningful relationships with students, and has worked tirelessly to meet the needs of diverse learners.

While Lisa enjoys all aspects of teaching, her favourite part is the relationships that she is able to build with students. “I want students to feel welcomed, cared for, and safe in my classroom and on the court when I am coaching them.”

In addition to her focus on relationship building and effective teaching strategies, Ference has also become involved in the school’s extra-curricular activities and taken on the role of athletic director for the year.

Considering the level of planning required for this position, Lisa’s exceptional organizational skills have certainly been an asset. “Her work in this regard has been amazing”, said Principal Songer.

When asked how it felt to be nominated, Ference said, “I was both humbled and appreciative to hear that I was recognized for my efforts in my first year of teaching”. She credits her success and growth to working in a supportive and encouraging school environment. “I have received tremendous support from my colleagues and school administration”. Lisa’s students have also been supportive. “Together we have co-created a positive learning environment.”

Lisa was raised in the Bonnyville area. Following her high school graduation, she attended the University of Alberta and graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor of Secondary Education with Distinction.

Her inspiration to become a teacher grew from being surrounded by excellent teachers who demonstrated a passion for teaching and learning. “I saw the difference they could make in helping students achieve their goals through their mentorship and positive encouragement.”

The Edwin Parr Awards are on May 18 in Taber.

-Press release, St. Paul Education