The Northern Lights Public Schools Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Stacy Sartain has been selected as the division's nominee for the 2025 Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) Edwin Parr Teacher Award.
Each year, the ASBA recognizes outstanding first-year teachers across Alberta with the Edwin Parr Award. Sartain was chosen for her ability to connect with students and create a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
"Stacy has a natural instinct for building relationships with kids," said Tracy Casselman, Principal of H.E. Bourgoin School (HEB). "She comes to school every day with a smile and a caring heart. Her class has a variety of needs, and she always finds creative ways to engage and support her students. She takes time to check in with them regularly, especially on Mondays after the weekend, and often uses community circles to encourage open conversations. You'll often find her sitting right on the floor with her students, making sure everyone feels included."
Sartain, who teaches Grade 6 at HEB, cites her desire to create equitable learning opportunities and safe and caring environments for students as her driving motivation.
"Being able to connect with students on a personal level to understand what they need and what works best for them is the reason I'm here," said Sartain. "This is what I love to do, and it makes all the hard work worth it."
"She's a fierce advocate for her students and their families," Casselman said. "She takes the time to build trust with parents, making sure they feel heard and supported. Her calm and caring nature makes a real difference."
Sartain brings a unique perspective to inclusive education, drawing from her own experiences as a parent of a child with complex needs. She encourages students to take an active role in shaping their education plans, helping them become more engaged in their learning.
"I was completely overwhelmed when I found out about my nomination honoured and excited, but overwhelmed," said Sartain. "I know there are so many incredible new teachers that joined the Division this year, and I feel lucky to be recognized. More than anything, I'm grateful that I've been able to make a difference, and that those efforts have been appreciated."
She also credited her colleagues for their support. "The teachers and staff here have been amazing. They're always willing to help, and that makes my job so much easier. I feel right at home teaching here, and with this kind of support, I can't fail."
The Board of Trustees congratulates Sartain on this recognition and is honoured to nominate her for this award.
"Stacy embodies what great teaching is all about building relationships, showing compassion, and putting students first," said NLPS Board Chair Karen Packard. "Her ability to connect with students, families, and colleagues has a lasting impact, and we are thrilled to recognize her with this nomination."
The Board of Trustees would also like to congratulate Caitlin MacDonald from Aurora Middle School, Sarah Sbeiti from Cold Lake Junior High, and Erika Tienhaara from H.E. Bourgoin School who were also put forward as Edwin Parr Award candidates by their schools.
Each school board in Alberta is eligible to nominate one outstanding first-year teacher for the Alberta School Boards' Association's Edwin Parr Award. A winner is selected from each Zone (NLPS is part of Zone 2/3 which selects two winners), and all six zone winners are recognized at the ASBA's Fall General Meeting in November.
