The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Tabatha Hart

Grade 1, Michael Strembitsky School, Edmonton

How long have you been teaching?

Seventeen years

Why did you become a teacher?

I had always loved working with children, even when I was young. My two main thoughts were to be a pediatrician or a teacher. I finally chose to be a teacher because I did some work experience in a Grade 3 classroom and loved the difference I could make in the students’ lives. I was hooked!

Current Association role

President, Greater Edmonton Teachers’ Convention Association

What are your main responsibilities?

I have just completed a three-year term as president. I chaired monthly meetings through the year, was kept abreast of the workings of all the vice-presidents and their committees, ensured that all parts of the convention were coming together as a cohesive whole, brought in some innovative ideas and ensured that we did not continue with the same old ways just because “that’s the way it’s always been done!” I brought in top-rated keynote speakers and spoke to any media that showed up at convention.

What do you enjoy most about this work?

Providing quality PD for my colleagues, meeting new people from the four districts, providing leadership to the GETCA executive and members, growing as a leader due to the numerous opportunities over three years and working with organizations like The Westin Edmonton and Shaw Conference Centre.

What other roles have you held with the Association?

I have been a chair on the executive of Edmonton Public Teachers’ Local No. 37 for four years. I have also been on many committees through the local and the ATA over the past 17 years.

Why do you do this work? Why is it important?

I believe in the importance of member engagement. How can I expect others to be involved if I am not setting that example? The work I do also keeps me updated on what is happening at the ATA and local levels. It also makes me feel like my fees are being well spent and I get a voice in how they are being used.

How or why did you first become involved in Association work?

When I was a student, my co-operating teacher was heavily involved in committees and with the Council of School Representatives. My first principal was a previous president of the local. Both women were amazing mentors and instilled in me a desire to be engaged and make a difference. I often thank them publicly for the difference they made in my life as a new teacher.

What is your favourite ...

Movie?
Grease

TV show?
The Big Bang Theory

Band/singer?
Adele

Book?
The Time Traveler’s Wife

Summer vacation activity?

I love going to Kelowna and reading on the beach.

Travel destination?

I really enjoyed Nashville but want to see Ireland.

Article of clothing?

A blue shirt that I wear too often :)

What super power would you most like to have and why?

Speed, so I can do more in a day and have time to read more.

What fictional character are you most like and why?

Speedy Gonzales. I am always in a hurry!

What fictional character would you most like to meet and why?

Winnie the Pooh. I would like to find time to have a lazy day with him ­under a tree.

What was your first car?

Gremlin  ❚