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Richard Svoboda is the ATA’s
newest executive staff officer.
With 30 years of experience in teaching and leadership with the Calgary Catholic School District, Richard Svoboda is the newest executive staff officer to join the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
Svoboda was appointed to the ATA’s Government program area, where he’ll specialize in conducting investigations as part of the discipline process. It’s an opportunity that suits his vast experience from teacher to principal, various central office roles to his last position as superintendent of human resources.
Svoboda said he’s excited to be involved in the ATA’s discipline process because the teaching profession is a position of trust and is called to a high standard.
“The discipline process creates accountability and public assurance to all parents that the ATA wants the best possible teachers in front of their children,” he said.
Forming relationships will be central to his new role, Svoboda said, adding that he’s learned the value of relationships through his extensive background in sports and coaching. Svoboda has coached high school football and basketball, and was assistant coach for the University of Calgary’s men’s basketball program and for the Alberta men’s under-17 basketball team.
“People don’t care what you know until they know you care,” he said. “I value being part of a team and being a contributing member to that team. In this role, you are dealing with people in their most vulnerable state, so fostering positive relationships goes a long way in conducting investigations.”
Svoboda holds degrees in physical education and education from the University of Calgary as well as a masters of educational leadership from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. He also holds a human resources certificate from Mount Royal University.
Beginning work on Nov. 1, Svoboda is based at the Southern Alberta Regional Office in Calgary. ❚
7 MORE THINGS about Richard
Who or what inspired you to be a teacher?
Originally I was going to be a physiotherapist, but through my phys-ed degree I started coaching, and I learned the enjoyment you get out of working with students, which has never left me. It also allowed me to follow in the steps of one of my heroes — my mother.
What makes you the most excited to start work at the ATA?
The opportunity to make a difference in the lives of teachers creating the best possible conditions for students to learn.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give yourself in your first year as a teacher?
Always focus on students and what is best for them. There are a lot of distractions in our world, but if you focus on your core purpose, everything else will take care of itself.
What is the greatest life lesson teaching has taught you?
Perseverance — not everything in life is easy, but keep learning from the rollercoaster you are on and enjoy the ride. You only get to do it once.
Favourite song to put you in a good mood
Most country music because it tells a good story
Favourite COVID-safe winter activity
Working in the garage or watching basketball and football
What kind of projects do you have on the go in your garage?
I like to work on cars doing detailing and minor body work.
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