Two members of the staff of the Kamsack Comprehensive Institute were presented with Sea Star awards on December 20 and four others received long-service awards.
The two staff members receiving the Sea Star awards, have “worked tirelessly for a combined 25 years” and “within this time they have become experts in their craft.
“One cannot point to specific efforts or situations because there are far too many and it's the everyday, day-in and day-out best practices that make the most difference,” said the nomination form.
The recipients are Lee Bowes, who has a service record of 14 years, and Shannon Bielecki, 11 years.
“Lee Bowes is the go to person for ASD strategies at KCI,” the nomination says. “She attends conferences, webinars and workshops every year to educate and stretch her knowledge about her students. She arrives early, forgoes breaks and stays late to adapt materials, work with teachers or just hang out with her students on her own time.
“She buys gifts at Christmas and no child's birthday goes uncelebrated. She is a calm
presence in any classroom. She excels at visual schedules and multitasking with small groups. Younger teachers look to her as a mentor and guide. Her students continue to grow from year to year as she embodies inclusion and independence. She runs the SADD (Students Against Drinking and Driving) group in Kamsack and has been the health region staff contact for our youth members.
“She quietly helps those in need and never looks for public accolades.
“A few years ago Lee lost her best friend and colleague to a tragic illness. While most of us would fall apart, Lee dedicated herself to her students in memory of Jeannine.
“Although her job description says educational assistant, she is truly a teacher.
“Shannon Bielecki is the master of organization and differentiated instruction,” the nomination said. “Shannon can take any lesson and adapt it to the level and need of her student.
“She researches endlessly to find the perfect materials and resources.
“Shannon is very adept with technology and works hard to master the newest apps and programs. She uses Google read and write with her students and teaches teachers to do the
same. She also produces fantastic social stories for all occasions. My personal favourite is Needle Day, which worked amazingly well to calm that pre-vaccination anxiety. I know she even does this on her own time in the summer as she called me up to see when I was renewing one of our on-line educational subscriptions.
“For Shannon, the needs of the students always come first. Shannon donates her time
and drives for all our sports teams. She is a qualified archery coach and helps runs the after-school archery club. She is first to volunteer for field trips and barbecues.
“Shannon does not wait for direction; she does what needs to be done and more.
“This busy farm mother of four always makes time for students from less fortunate circumstances. She is a respected professional whom I am lucky to call a colleague.
“Dedicated, professional, knowledgeable and consistently striving to improve student success: Lee Bowes and Shannon Bielecki are exemplary employees and should be recognized as such,” the nomination says.
