Celebrating Service . . . and Saying Goodbye

Celebrating several long-serving Local 306 members who recently retired

Back to school, school breaks, the start of summer and end of classes. For many, the cycle of the school year provides a rhythm to the years.

This is true for students and teachers, and also other various employee groups who make the education system what it is. As the 2018-2019 school year ended, we had a chance to connect with a few Local 306 members who retired after serving 20 plus years!

Helen Harder – 20 years, School Administrative Assistant, Garden Valley School Division

“I began working as a school administrative assistant in 1984. I worked in three schools, subbed in almost all of the schools in the division, and worked for 16 administrators and with so many staff members.

“When I am asked what I liked most about my job, that is an easy answer: the people. I enjoyed interacting with the students, parents, and staff. Don’t get me wrong, the job itself was awesome as well, but the people made it the best.

“Connecting with parents in the office and over the phone has been so great. Of course the students bring a special joy to each day. So many good memories, funny stories, hugs and smiles from the students.

“Not many people can say that they enjoyed going to work each day, I truly have been blessed. A quote by Amber Pence I came across sums up my feelings about my job perfectly: “Every day I get to do something I love and make an impact on people’s lives.”

Isabel Vogt – 20 years, Educational Assistant, Hanover School Division

“I was a parent volunteer when our children went to school, and I really enjoyed being close to our children and helping out at the same time. When our youngest started grade one, I talked with my husband about my desire to work as an EA, and I was pleasantly surprised that I started working shortly after that.

“My first school was the Steinbach Junior High, now known as Stonybrook Middle School. Years later, I wanted to work with younger children, and I asked for a transfer to Southwood School. Last but not least I asked to go to Elmdale School.

“I was constantly looking for the best way to provide guidance to the students as not every student learns the same way or at the same pace. It was my responsibility to find out what the child needed.

“I thought that retirement should happen when you are still having fun at work, so I left with a smile on my face. My former coworkers had a very big impact on my persona and confidence.

They are helpful, smart, knowledgeable, and hardworking people who I miss. Of course the children were kind and always spoke their minds; I loved that! I miss their kind comments, questions and compliments, and their hugs!

“I am very thankful that I worked for Hanover School Division and that we had a union. I felt protected. It was something I believed in.”

Judy Zacharias – 20 years, Educational Assistant, Garden Valley School Division

“I was with the school division since March 1999. I started at JR Walkof School and ended at Emerado Centennial School. I worked about seven years at the first school and twelve and a half at the second school, in various grades and many capacities.

“When contributing in your life’s career, remember to do what you love and love what you do. You will make a difference in other people’s lives if you do this.”

Audrey Friesen – 33 years, Educational Assistant, Hanover School Division

“In 1954, I walked into Elmdale for kindergarten. Years later, I walked in again to begin my career as an educational assistant—a good fit considering my other role of raising four daughters.

“In the ’80s, the role of EA was a new thing, and the focus was on integrating special needs in the classroom. The job has changed over 30 years, and often new EAs are surprised at what the job entails.

“I served as a CLAC liaison after we unionized and remember the meetings the liaisons had to discuss school concerns. Elmdale didn’t have divisions within the staff; we still meet for coffee dates! I always said it was like a second family. This fall, my granddaughter will start school at Elmdale, and I’ll go back to volunteer!

Helen Harder

Isabel Vogt

Judy Zacharias

Audrie Friesen

Celebrating Service . . . and Saying Goodbye

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