To recognize support staff and their exceptional contributions to support student learning, the District created the Support Staff Recognition scholarship. Eligibility for this scholarship is for graduating students who have made a positive impact on their school community. The 2021 recipients are students from David Thompson and Churchill Secondary schools.
One of the winners is Grade 12 student, Emily Lee. In her scholarship submission, Lee acknowledges the support received from her youth settlement worker and coordinator of the Engaged Immigrant Youth Program (EIYP), Andara Ahmad. When Lee first started high school at Churchill Secondary, she felt hesitant to join school activities that were outside of her comfort zone. After Ahmad introduced Lee to EIYP, Lee started to feel more confident and began contributing her thoughts and ideas in group settings at school. “I am so grateful for all the help and support Andara has given to me over the years, and for the wonderful leadership opportunities she encouraged me to participate in,” says Lee.
With support from Ahmad, Lee says she developed stronger leadership, collaboration, and communication skills and felt encouraged to share her culture and sense of identity within her school community. “My secondary school experience at Churchill wouldn’t be the same without Andara,” Lee adds. Lee is now looking forward to attending UBC to study science.
Learn more about the Support Staff Recognition scholarship that celebrates the work of staff who hold a support role in schools and the positive impact they have on students.