Amy Stewart was already living in Nelson prior to attending the WKTEP Elementary program. A fourth generation Settler from Europe, Amy has a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University and a one-year diploma in life coaching and counselling from Rhodes Wellness College. Amy is currently completing a Master in Education: School Counselling from City University of Seattle.
Q1. How did you hear about WKTEP?
I heard about WKTEP from family friends who are administrators in the area.
Q2. What inspired you to go into teaching?
My long term goal always had teaching in mind. I love learning new things and working with children. The WKTEP program, deeply rooted in place-based learning, provided me the opportunity to learn to be a teacher while also considering this place I call home. Connecting my love for learning and teaching to the land and the community was important to me. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to learn in this way.
Q3. Have you encountered any challenges or learning curves, and if so how did you overcome them?
Balancing my family life, work life, and school life had its challenges while being in WKTEP. Knowing my limits and creating support systems helped me hold strong when the load was maxed out.
Q4. What was your biggest takeaway from practicum?
My biggest takeaway from practicum was the feeling of being capable but also realizing that my journey to becoming fully competent as a teacher had only just begun. Teaching is a craft that one refines over time. The practicum allowed me to get a feel for the craft of teaching and set me on my path of continuous learning.
Q6. What is the one piece of advice you would like to give to a potential WKTEP student?
Enjoy the experience; connect with your colleagues, instructors, and the land. The gift of this program is found through the integration of these connections and a love for learning.