Everyday Heroes: Joeline Cabanaw, Kirk Campbell, Erin Harris, and Brittany Down

Everyday Hero March 28

We are honoured to present this week’s Everyday Heroes for the 2023/24 school year.

Our everyday heroes are the epitome of compassion, devotion and care, transforming everyday tasks into extraordinary impacts.

Their subtle yet powerful actions not only elevate the experiences of colleagues but also enrich the lives of the students we proudly serve. They are more than just supportive adults or empathetic peers; they are the vibrant pulse of our educational community, profoundly touching the lives of all they encounter.

Our everyday heroes come in all forms, quietly making a difference in our schools and board offices, yet very often they overlook or downplay their own actions.

This week we are celebrating Joeline Cabanaw, Kirk Campbell, Erin Harris, and Brittany Down.

Joeline Cabanaw

Joeline Cabanaw Joeline is an EA at St. Mother Teresa CES. Joeline was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“I am nominating Joeline Cabanaw for her outstanding commitment to all students in our school community here at St. Mother Teresa. Joeline comes to work with running shoes on and boy does she get those steps in, managing two students who often have her going in opposite directions! She is loved by all students having worked with them in previous years. When Joeline is not running, she is dancing, with all the kinders and anyone else who would like to join in. Her spirit is contagious and can bring anyone into a positive headspace simply by working alongside her. There is no challenge too great for this gal. She is a gem to our school community and chooses Joy as her antidote to life’s demands. She wears her heart on her sleeve and genuinely gives more of herself than ever asked. Joleen is such a pleasure to work with and deserves this acknowledgement for her role as an EA at St. Mother Teresa!

Kirk Campbell

Kirk Campbell
Kirk is a Teacher at Holy Cross CSS. Kirk was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“When it comes to supporting and caring for others, Kirk Campbell immediately comes to mind. From the moment students step into his classroom, they are greeted with an atmosphere of warmth and encouragement. He is selfless with his time and always willing to help out anyone in need from offering financial assistance to a student/staff in need, to staying late after school to ensure someone’s vehicle is fixed and ready to drive to supporting students in risk and needing a strong role model. In Kirk’s classroom, innovation knows no bounds. Whether it’s leading students in welding a beautiful nativity scene for the school/school board and a parish to students creating thoughtful Christmas gifts made of steel for their loved ones. It is not uncommon to see students ‘beaming’ with joy and pride regarding their creations made in Kirk’s classes and automotive skills learned. But perhaps Kirk’s greatest gift lies in his ability to inspire. Beyond teaching automotive/welding skills, he instills in his students a sense of confidence, resilience, and a belief in their own potential. Through his genuine kindness, mentorship and guidance, Kirk equips students with the tools they need to navigate in society with courage and conviction. His dedication, passion, and unwavering belief in the potential of every student demonstrates why Kirk Campbell is beyond deserving of the Everyday Hero.”

Erin Harris

Erin Harris Erin is a Teacher at St. Stephen CSS. Erin was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“Erin Harris, to put into assessment terms, goes “above and beyond” every day for her fellow coworkers, and her students. Not only does she run band practices weekly and bring her students to competitions where they excel, but she is there for her students through all their hardships and successes, giving them the attention and care that they need. Erin’s sense of humour and ability to connect with her students allows for life long relationships, and of course it helps to have a fun music teacher who isn’t afraid to laugh with her students. Keep up the great work Erin!”

Brittany Down

Brittany Down
Brittany is an EA at Good Shepherd CES. Brittany was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“Brittany although being relatively new to our board has given amazing support to one of my students. This student has had a lot of issues and required delicate support to make her feel welcome into a new school. Brittany always has a friendly smile and even when things do not go according to plan has shown remarkable poise in transitioning to a new idea. She listens and acts on suggestion and often takes it upon herself to implement ideas. We are so fortunate to have her and I know that my student could not have asked for a better support worker.

 

We would like to thank Joeline, Kirk, Erin, and Brittany for their commitment to creating a culture of faith, hope and love to ensure equity and well-being at our board.